Irma Lee Cantley, 87, of Morganton, NC passed away on Wednesday, October 4, 2023. She was born on June 26, 1936 in Ripley, West Virginia to the late Birvie Christian and Louise Stevens Christian. She was a charter member of Sunnyside Baptist Church. Irma retired from Grace Hospital and was the best cook in Burke County. She was a cook at the National Mine Academy in Beckley, WVA. Irma loved spending time with her family and friends. She was a social butterfly, always smiling and making others smile.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brothers, Paul, Michael Ray, and Ronnie Christian; sisters, Birvetta Nichols, Jennifer Craig, and Angela Piatt.
Irma is survived by her husband, Michael R. Cantley; children, Paul Douglas Thomas (Judy), Bryan Thomas (Joanne), and Katrina Loesekann (Michael); grandchildren, Travis, Amy, Brandon, Ritchie, Robbie, Kelsey, and Garrett; great-grandchildren, Cole, Alexis, Kaitlyn, Eli, Parker, Faith, Adaline; two great-great-grandchildren; surviving siblings, Rockwell Christian, Randy Christian, and Lexie Berry.
The family will receive friends from 2-3pm on Sunday, October 8, 2023 at Sunnyside Baptist Church. The service will begin at 3pm in the church with the Revs. Clint Ewing and Steven Painter officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to Sunnyside Baptist Church.
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.
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Prayers for the family of a great lady. She will be greatly missed and I know these following days will be difficult but we know she is in the arms of Jesus. So long my friend until we meet again.
I'm so deeply sorry this wonderful woman has been taken away from us. My only sister in law and I will never forget you. To my brother Michael I'm sad you lost a great wife,a strong woman I love you buddy.
Our deepest condolences to you and your family ♥️
Hi Mike. Trina, and the rest of the family: I remember the first time Mike brought Irma to our house. Trina, you were just a little girl. Irma was smiling, smiling, smiling! Such a pleasant person. Ever after that she was always the same. Mom and Dad always enjoyed hanging out with you guys. Without a doubt they spent more time with you and Irma, Mike, than anyone in the Neal family. Good memories, I'm sure. I miss Mom and Dad every single day, as you all will continue to miss Irma, but just think...it is only for a short time and we will all be together again with Irma and so many others. What a great thing to look forward to!! Blues and I love you all. Bless you. May God comfort you and give you peace. Love, Patty Neal Benedict
Prayers for Michael, and family. My deepest sympathy for everyone.
Katrina, so sorry for the loss of your wonderful precious mother! You and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers! Mothers are so amazing and shower so much love and oh the grace and mercy they gave us growing up and after we leave the nest are always there for us in any capacity necessary. The love keeps growing in her children to pass to your children! A mothers love is the nearest love I think to Gods love for us. I know you have many memories to cherish always! Love and Prayers, Sharon Cain
So sorry to hear of Irma’s passing. I enjoyed her years ago when I was at the old Clear Creek school. She had an infectious personality. I know you will truly miss her…..God bless you and the family.
We all love u mamaw and that will never change. Thank you for being a 2 mamaw to me . I can see you dancing and playing the harmonica up there. You are loved and missed.
#1 Mamaw, I love you