May 23, 2025, 96, Goldsboro —

Irene Brown Johnson, age 96, of 561 Gurley Dairy Road, passed away on Friday May 23, 2025 at Kitty Askins Hospice Center.

Born in Edgecombe County, NC on October 5, 1928, she was the daughter of the late Henry Frank Brown and Bessie Jobe Brown. In addition to her parents, Irene was preceded in death by her husband, James Ray Johnson; brother, Linwood Brown; daughter, Kay Johnson Cherry; and daughter-in-law, Monica Johnson.

She leaves behind her son Perry Johnson (wife, Kim); four grandchildren, Matthew Cherry (wife, Angela), Katie Cherry, Aaron Johnson, Noah Johnson (wife, Keli); three great-grandchildren, Tanner Cherry, Dylan Cherry, and Riley Johnson; and sister, Mary Boehm (husband, Jim). She also leaves a large extended family at Nahunta Friends Church.

After graduating from high school, Irene pursued nursing studies in Wilson. However, love would chart a new course for her life, leading her to marry and settle in the Nahunta area, where she built a home filled with warmth and kindness. Though her path temporarily diverged from nursing, she eventually returned to the profession she loved, dedicating herself to the care of others and retiring from Wayne Memorial Hospital after 24 years of service.

For over 75 years, Irene was a faithful and devoted member of Nahunta Friends Meeting, where her presence was a constant source of strength and encouragement. She was also an active member of the Nahunta Grange for more than 50 years and a longtime participant in the Wayne County Extension and Community Association. Her faith and her church were guiding lights in her life, and she lived each day with grace and gratitude.

In retirement, Irene’s generosity only grew. She worked with the Friends Disaster Service, helping build four homes for families in need—a true testament to her spirit of service. She found joy in tending her garden, preparing meals for others, and spending quiet moments with a good book.

Irene will be remembered not only for her many contributions to the community, but for the warmth of her heart, her unwavering faith, and her tireless dedication to others.

A service to celebrate Irene’s life will be held at 2:30 p.m. on Friday, May 30, 2025 at Nahunta Friends Church. Interment will follow at Evergreen Memorial Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 29, 2025 at Seymour Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be directed to the Building Fund at Nahunta Friends Church.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Seymour Funeral Home and Cremation Service.