IRBY, Charlie Jr. – age 81 of Grand Blanc, MI passed away Sunday, February 12, 2017 at the Oaks at Woodfield. Visitation will take place on Tuesday, February 21, 2017 from 11AM-8PM. A Rosary Service will take place at 7PM. Funeral Services will take place on Wednesday, February 22, 2017 at 12PM at Brown Funeral Home – 1480 E. Hill Rd. Grand Blanc, MI with one hour of visitation prior to the service. Chaplain Hank Messing officiating. Burial will take place at Gracelawn Cemetery in Flint, MI. Charlie was born on June 8, 1935 in Selma, AL to the late Charlie and Viola (Byrd) Irby Sr. He graduated from R.B. Hudson High School in 1953. Charlie served his country in the United States Navy. He was a member of Don Bosco Boys Club in Selma, AL. Charlie was also a member of St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Flint. He was employed by General Motors as an electrician for 40 years before his retirement. Charlie was formerly married to Helen Marie Rosemond, who passed away January 4, 2013. Of that union, they raised four children together: Robert (Dray) Rosemond, Michael A. Irby, Sonya D. Irby, and Mrs. Kelia M. Williams. Charlie loved watching sports, any sports! For many years, he and his buddies were proud supporters and fans of Flint Northern High School Girls’ Basketball team. So much so, they were coined “The Granddads.” Anyone who knew Charlie learned that he was a man of few words until he wanted to talk. However, he always said what he meant and meant what he said. Charlie may not have been big on fishing, but he was the first in line to get a piece of fresh fish out of the pan! He was a creature of habit. He wore no jewelry of any kind, same cologne for 60 years, same brand of clothing, and ate the same type of foods to name a few. Although Charlie may not have shown affection, he was a very loving, giving, and caring person. He will be greatly missed. Charlie leaves to cherish his memory his son, Robert (Dray) Rosemond; daughters, Sonya D. Irby and Mrs. Kelia M. (Tyrone) Williams; granddaughters, Tanicia M. Rosemond and La’Phonshae S. Wilson; sisters, Mattie Mitchell, Corine Simmons Thelkeld, and Gloria Robinson; brother, Daniel Irby; brother-in-law, Willie Finley, several nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, son, Michael A. Irby; brothers, Joseph Irby and Robert Irby; and sister, Oretha Finley. Charlie’s daughters, Sonya and Kelia would like to thank everyone for all of their support and prayers and for loving their father as they did. Also a special thanks to Genesys Regional Medical Center and their staff, Dr. Reddy, Dr. Kunadi, Dr. Alluru, Dr. Idrees, Great Lakes Caring, The Oaks at Woodfield nursing home, Brown Funeral Home, and Gracelawn Cemetery. Those desiring may make contributions to St. Michael’s Catholic Church or the family. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.brownfh.com.
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.8.18