Continued from "Our Family" - They had three children, with one surviving child, Versie Diane. Irene lived in Newport News while Arthur worked in the shipyards. They returned to Buckingham because of respiratory problems. It was here that Irene fulfilled her passion as an educator, teaching elementary school for more than 33 years. Starting in a one room school with many grades, she moved to SJ Ellis Elementary School. Later, she was one of the first teachers selected for “Freedom Choice” to integrate Buckingham schools when SJ Ellis and Dillwyn Primary were merged. Irene even taught her own daughter, Diane. She had a lasting impact on her students, with many of them visiting and calling her frequently even months before her transition. Irene was a loving caregiver, first to her father, her sisters and brothers, husband and daughter, and to Cousin Ed. She cared for Ed for over 20 years, taking him to doctor’s appointments, buying him clothes, toiletries and food. She also taught Ed to write his name. She was an active member of the Slate River Baptist Church. It is important to note that Grandfather John Gough donated the land where the original Slate River Church was built. At Slate River, Irene was a Deaconess, Choir Director, pianist, Sunday School Teacher and Missionary. She also filled in wherever required. She was excited when her siblings financed a trip for her to the Holy Land. In 1995 she relocated from Buckingham to Washington, DC to live with her daughter, Diane. Drawing from her early love of art an education, she continued to enjoy painting and reading until her death at nearly 100 years old. Near the end of her life, Irene said, “I have worked hard all my life, I am satisfied and I want to go home.” It was here in this very house that we all enjoyed many spectacular birthday parties for our “Aunt Pig”.