Irene M. (Gardner) Finley

Irene M. Finley

June 8, 1926 – January 9, 2026

Irene M. Finley, a lifelong beloved member of the Monroe community, passed away peacefully on January 9, 2026, at the age of 99, following a brief illness. Born on June 8, 1926, in Monroe, Michigan, Irene lived a life full of love, dedication, and service to those around her.

A lifelong resident of Monroe, Irene was a proud graduate of Monroe High School and a devoted member of the First Baptist Church of Monroe, where she nurtured her faith and formed lasting friendships. She married her beloved husband, Roy L. Finley, on October 4, 1946, at the same church where she would later dedicate much of her life’s work. They shared a remarkable 70 years of marriage, enduring with grace his unique sense of humor until his passing on June 19, 2016.

Irene spent her early career working at Michigan Bell for four years before becoming a manager at the Top Value Redemption Center for ten years, retiring in the 1960s. Her professional life was characterized by a strong work ethic and a warm, friendly demeanor that endeared her to colleagues and customers alike.

Her interests were varied and vibrant, reflecting a woman who cherished both her family and her community. Irene was an avid knitter, creating afghan blankets that she lovingly distributed among family, friends, and church shut-ins, a testament to her generous spirit. She participated in the church bowling league in her younger years and enjoyed traveling with her husband to Florida, particularly to the Kissimmee area. In recent times, she embraced social media as a way to stay connected with loved ones, always enjoying the simple pleasure of her favorite snack, M&M's.

Irene was an enthusiastic card player, sharing many joyful hours with Roy and their friends in the Euchre Club. Her life was a tapestry woven with love, laughter, and cherished memories.

She is preceded in death by her husband Roy, her parents James and Mildred (Colton) Gardner, two sisters, Norma Pearch and Laura Finley, and her granddaughter, Angela Finley. Left to honor her memory are her three children: James (Catherine Williams) Finley of Port Charlotte, Florida; Carol (Charlie) Foshag of Newport; and John (Susie) Finley of Toledo. She is also survived by her sisters, Gertrude Parlette and Ruth Owsley, both of Monroe. Her legacy continues through her seven grandchildren: Brian (Teresa) Foster, Mark (Sarah) Foshag, Kenny (Melissa) Foshag, Steve Finley, April (Jim) Stewart, Jaime Finley, and Josh Finley; nine great-grandchildren: Courtney (Adam) Roser, Luke Foshag, Keegan Foshag, Harrison Foshag, Kaleb Foshag, Katie Finley, Morriah Stewart, Maggie Stewart, and Noah Finley; and her great-great-grandson, Michael Roser.

Family and friends may visit on Sunday, January 18, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Rupp Funeral Home, 2345 S. Custer Road, Monroe, MI 48161. Irene will lie in state at the First Baptist Church, Monroe, at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, January 19, 2026, where services celebrating her life will begin at 11:00 a.m., officiated by co-pastors Kim and Cindy Semran. She will be laid to rest beside her husband at Roselawn Memorial Park, LaSalle, at a later date.

In remembrance of Irene's enduring love for her church community, memorial contributions may be made to the First Baptist Church, Monroe. Her grace, kindness, and unwavering devotion to family and faith will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

Online condolences to the family may be sent by visiting www.ruppfuneralhomeinc.com.