Her husband, Leo Leifer, preceded her in death by 32 years. During those years, she enjoyed an independent life with family and friends while managing the care for her disabled son with great dedication and courage.

In addition, her experiences as receptionist at the Peninsula Mental Health Center were some of her happiest and most productive. Irene delighted in a good story and spending time with family and friends. She loved to laugh and had a sharp wit, often seeing the humor in situations others might find a challenge. Children were her joy and she was a favorite grandparent and aunt. She delighted in her sense of style and appreciated beauty in life.

She will be missed greatly by her son, Ricky Leifer, her daughter and son-in-law, Shelly and Tom Brunner, her grandchildren, Rob and his wife Michelle, Emily, David and his wife Yuko, her great-grandchildren, Leo, Kousei, Akio, and Naoki, and many nieces and nephews.

Donations in Irene's memory may be made to VersAbility Resources, 2520 58th Street, Hampton, VA 23661. View and post condolences on our online guestbook at dailypress.com/guestbooks.

Published in the Daily Press on May 5, 2016.
View Guest Book