Helen Irby, 89, of Bethlehem, entered the nearer presence of her Lord and Saviour peacefully on Wednesday, September 14, 2016. She was the former wife of the late Nemiah Irby who passed in 2015. Born in Hazelhurst, MS, she was a daughter of the late Tom and Mary (Collins) Allen.

Survivors: She is survived by her children, Peggy Irby who has been caring for Helen during the last several years, Benny Irby, Robert Irby and his wife Karen, Paul Irby, Tony Irby, Sam Irby and his wife Wanda; 8 grandchildren; 10 great grandchildren; nieces and nephews, Tommie McDonald, Lois Harrson, Eloise Brodie, Shirley Parks, Seretha Morton, Patricia Merritt, Carolyn Miller, Mary Inez (Peachy) Jones and Venessa Lovell. She was preceded in death by brothers and sisters, Mae Buleah Hilliard, Johnnie B. Allen, Pealeaner Askerneese, Tom Allen Jr.,Emaline Allen, Carrie Fantcher, Onelia Teresa Jones, Charlie B. Allen, William Henry Allen.

Services: Relatives and friends are invited to her viewing, Friday, September 23, 2016, beginning at 10:30 a.m. and followed by her Home Going Service at 11:00 a.m. all in the JAMES FUNERAL HOME, 527 Center Street, Bethlehem. Cremation will follow the service. Entombment of ashes will take place later in Woodlawn Cemetery Mausoleum.