Irene Mary Whitford, 88, of Stonington died Wednesday, April 29, 2015 at the Westerly Hospital after a brief illness. She was married to her beloved husband, Ellery E. “Whit” Whitford, for 50 years. He predeceased her in 1999.
She was born on August 16, 1926 in New Britain, the daughter of John and Mary (Roman) Tumel. She grew up in New Britain, graduating from New Britain High School. She received her Nursing Degree from New Britain General Hospital.
Irene worked for 30 years as a Registered Nurse at the Westerly Hospital serving as Head Nurse of the Pediatric Unit for many years. All children were special to her and touched her heart. Upon her retirement in 1988, as a much-loved nurse and friend to all, the entire hospital staff gathered in the lobby to wish her well and see her off in a limousine.
She is survived by her two daughters, Kathleen Fox and her husband Tom, of Arizona and Linda Whitford of Pawcatuck. She is also survived by her sister Joan Gajda of New Britain, as well as numerous nieces, nephews and great-nephews. In addition to her husband, she is predeceased by her brother Edward Tumel.
Funeral services and burial will be private for the family.
In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, P.O. Box 1000, Dept. 142, Memphis TN 38148 (Reference Tribute#38188822).
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