March 4, 1918 - April 3, 2009

Irene Lucas, 91 of Albany passed away Friday at the Mennonite Home.

Irene was born in Kansas City, Mo., where she married Nick Lucas. He preceded her in death in 1976. As a homemaker, Irene devoted herself to caring for her family and helping with her husband's business.

Later in life she worked at Albany Flowers & Hallmark and enjoyed studying floral design. She also took art classes and became an accomplished painter. Irene lived in the Willamette Valley for nearly 60 years. The last original resident of Quail Run, she had made her home there since 1995.

She is survived by her daughters, Joann Quesenberry of Albany, Judith Whiting of Vancouver, Wash., Jean Drake of Boring, and Sharon Schreiber of Oxford, Miss.; her sister Dollie Lucas of Gladstone, Mo., 10 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Her brother, two grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren preceded her in death.

A private burial will be Thursday with a memorial service to follow. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Oregon State Library Talking Book and Braille Services, 250 Winter St. N.E., Salem, OR 97301-2950.

AAsum-Dufour Funeral Home is handling arrangements (www.aasum-dufour.com).