Miss Irene Baldwin, daughter of the late Mr. Cleveland Baldwin and Mrs. Mazie Spence Baldwin, was born on February 26, 1946, in Wake County, NC. She departed this life at her beloved home on January 7, 2025, and went to be with her heavenly father. She professed hope and faith in Christ at an early age and was until her demise, a faithful member of the Bazzel Creek Missionary Baptist.

Irene developed a strong work ethic at an early, working on the family farm. From these humble beginnings, she had a strong desire and determination to further her education, achieve and to become successful.

Irene graduated from the Fuquay Consolidated High School, Fuquay-Varina, NC in 1963. She was an exemplary student and continued her education at Shaw University, Raleigh, NC. In 1967 she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Education. Post graduate studies were completed at North Carolina Central University, Durham, NC, where she received a Master's degree in Education and a Principal's Administrative Certification.

Irene was an outstanding middle school teacher at Coats School, located in Harnett County School District for over 30 years. She maintained high standards and was admired and respected by her students, colleagues and parents. Her professional affiliations included the North Carolina Association of Educators, the Harnett County Association Educators, and the National Association of Educators. Irene continued working as an assistant principal at Coats School for ten years and was very dedicated.

Irene was a faithful member of the Bazzel Creek Missionary Baptist Church. She served in various capacities and committees' unit her health limited her involvement. One of her inspirations was music. She was a member of the Senior Choir and the Davis Inspirational Choir. She served as a youth choir musician / director and as a musician for the Male Chorus for several years. She enjoyed singing and imparted her musical expertise with the choirs. Irene was serious about her work and strove for perfection. she thoroughly enjoyed the fellowship of the weekly prayer group.

Irene was a dedicated member of the following organizations: Order of Eastern Star, Prince Hall affiliated where she served as Worthy Matron for Chapter 212 for several years and District Deputy Grand Matron for District 22; Heroines of Jericho; a charter member and past Loyal Lady Ruler of the Circle of Perfection; charter member of Oprah Court, Cyrene Crusaders; Golden Circle; and Daughter of Isis, Past Commandress of Kabala Court. Irene was a dynamic leader in these organizations.

Surviving to cherish precious memories are nieces: Sharon Baldwin Bentley (Kevin), Gwendolyn Baldwin Thornton, Kimberly Baldwin Williams, Barbara McLean, Dilly Conny (Terry), Gladys Baldwin, Monique Baldwin, Denise Burch (Jerry); her nephews: Felton Baldwin (Debbie) and Gregory Baldwin; her special cousins Faye Spence and Jeannette Greene (Bernard), sister-in-law Ruby Jones (Erle) and a host of other relatives and friends.

Irene leaves an indelible impression upon those who knew her. Her brilliant spirit, radiant smile and compassionate heart captivated everyone who had an opportunity to know Irene. Her passing left a legacy of love, service and faith.

Public Viewing: 1:00 - 5:00 pm on Monday, January 13, 2025, at Trice Funeral Home Chapel, 127 N. West Street in Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526.

Viewing: 11:00 am - 12:00 pm on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at Bazzel Creek Missionary Baptist Church in Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526.

Funeral will be held 12:00 pm on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at Bazzel Creek Missionary Baptist Church, 1228 Wilbon Road in Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526.

Burial: Bazzel Creek Missionary Baptist Church Cemetery in Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526