Irene Lay Shipman went to be with her Lord and Savior on Thursday April 16, 2009.

Irene was born on October 29, 1919 in Miflin, AL to Henry and Theresa Lay. She married Luther Ralph Shipman on March 24, 1939.

She is preceded in death by all of her siblings as well as numerous other family members.

She is survived by her loving husband of 70 years, Ralph Shipman of Pensacola; daughter Dianne Vaughn of Panama City, FL; son and daughter-in-law Larry (Gloria) Shipman of Grant, AL.

 In addition, she is survived by a host of loving family and friends including numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She was of the Baptist faith and is a member of Myrtle Grove Baptist Church as well as a past member of Pensacola Baptist Temple.

Irene's life exemplified the true meaning of Christianity, care, compassion and selflessness.

 In addition to her own children, Irene opened her heart and raised Ralph's three younger siblings; Rev. Don Shipman of Dallas Tx, Kay Centurione of Atlanta, GA and Gene Shipman (deceased).

She taught all that came in contact with her the word of Jesus and quoted scripture along the way.

 Hoping to inspire, she was instrumental in leading the entire family with her devout faith.

 We will miss her but are comforted in knowing she now resides in heaven.

Visitation, 1:00pm Tuesday, April 21, 2009 at Pensacola Memorial Gardens Funeral Home until services begin at 2:00pm.

 Internment will follow the service at Pensacola Memorial Gardens.

Officiating will be Rev. Don Shipman, Rev. Danny Andrews, Rev. Glen Anderson, and Rev. Ron Lentine.

Arrangements are by Pensacola Memorial Gardens Funeral Home.