Hetherington, Irene Myrtle-It is with deep love and gratitude that we celebrate the life of Irene Hetherington (nee Broad). Irene has gone to be with her lord and saviour on Friday, October 10 2025, at Riverview Gardens, Chatham at the age of 93. Predeceased by her loving husband Charlie (1996). Loving mother of Mary Lou (the late John Miller), Ruth (Tom) Burgess and Gordon (Renee) Hetherington. Dear grandmother of Mathew (Laura), Michael (Ashley), Tammy, Jeff (Katey), Adam (Allie), Ciara (David) and Daniel. Loving great grandmother of John, George, Jaelyn, Jaida, Brooklyn, Jemma, and the late Nevaeh, Mabel and Logan. Sister to Gilbert (Nancy) Broad. Predeceased by Melvin (Sandy), Pearl (the late Ken) and Don (Barb). Irene’s greatest joy came with the arrival of her 3 children. Her life was defined by kindness, faith, laughter and an unwavering devotion to her family and friends. An avid reader with a soft spot for historical romance novels. Irene cherished quiet moments with a good book almost as much as she loved the lively sound of conversation and laughter around her. Irene attended Toronto Bible College, her faith guided her throughout her life and inspired her gentle spirit. Irene was a member to the “Church on the River” Lambton Baptist Church for many years. Irene worked as a telephone operator for the Village of Sombra, in the kitchen at Wallaceburg hospital and later devoted herself to caring for others as a homecare provider. She also volunteered as a driver for meals on wheels extending her compassion beyond her own family the community she loved. Having grown up and living most of her life on the farm, Irene carried a deep appreciation for the land, simple joys and hard work. A devoted correspondent, Irene never missed sending a holiday or birthday card, always including a handwritten note filed with encouragement, wit and wisdom. Her thoughtful words were treasured by many. She was also a spirited game player, competitive at skip-bo and scrabble. She was always up for a laugh. She shared a special bond with her sister Pearl, the 2 spoke on the phone daily, shared countless laughs and loved playing games together. Their connection was one of joy, friendship and unconditional love. Her laughter was infectious, her faith steadfast and sense of style unmatched, a true fashionista in every sense. A loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. Irene was a role model of grace, strength and unconditional love. She will be deeply missed by all who were blessed to know her
Funeral Details
Family and friends are invited to a visitation and funeral service on Wednesday, October 15, 2025 from 10-11am at Steadman Brothers Funeral home, a funeral service will follow.
Donations
Sympathy can be expressed through donations to Canadian Cancer Society (https://cancer.ca/)
Sorry for your loss ,condolences sent to Ruth and Tom Burgess and family .
Gilbert and Nancy
We are former neighbours from the Fairway Towers. We’re very sorry for your loss of your sister. Our condolences.
Sending our heartfelt sympathies to the entire family. May it comfort you to use all your cherished memories at this difficult time.
Marilyn Ritchie (McGee)
She was a friend of my mom. They talked on the phone or when their paths crossed while we were out shopping. She always had a smile. So sorry for your loss
So very sorry to hear of the loss of your mother. I always loved visiting with her when ever I crossed paths with her, although it’s been awhile. Deepest sympathy to the Herrington family.
Mom,
No words can express the sorrow we are all feeling. You were always here for us, to lend a helping hand, to talk to when we needed to talk, to reminisce, for whatever reason you were always here. You always had my back. You finally have your wings. No more pain, no more suffering, no more anything bad, you are finally free. You will be great missed and always loved and appreciated. Have a dance with Dad and say hello to him. Say hello to those whom have gone before us. Till we meet again. All our love always & forever
Sorry for your loss.