Irene A. King

Irene A. King, a beloved matriarch and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on August 4, 2025, at the age of 78. Born on July 11, 1947, in New York, New York, Irene's journey through life was one defined by her unwavering compassion and commitment to those around her.

She dedicated over 40 years of her life to Schnucks, where she served as the Service Center Manager, embedding herself in a community that thrived on the relationships she built. Irene always had an innate ability to connect with people—her genuine warmth making her not just a colleague but a dear friend to many. Her employment served not just as a career, but as a conduit for her generosity, as she often helped others, even in times when she herself could have used a helping hand.

Education was important to Irene, and she proudly graduated from Lindenwood University with a Bachelor of Science degree. This achievement was just one testament to her intelligence and resourcefulness. Throughout her life, she was known for her artistic spirit, often expressing her creativity through drawing and artistry. She had a particular flair for life, making it vibrant through her many passions and interests. A devoted fan of Cardinals baseball, Irene filled her home with enthusiasm for the game, sharing many joyful moments tied to her love for the sport.

Irene was not just smart and creative; she was a genuinely loving soul. She was a devoted wife for 61 beautiful years, standing side by side with her husband through thick and thin. This foundation of love extended to her family, enriching their lives with her nurturing spirit.

Above all, Irene’s love for her family was boundless. She adored her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren with a fierce and unconditional devotion. As the matriarch of the family, Irene was the glue that held them all together—her warmth and wisdom guiding every step. She took immense pride in her role as a loving and protective matriarch, always there to offer a steady hand, an open heart, and a listening ear.

Irene had a special way of holding each one of us tight, in both body and spirit, offering a comforting embrace that would soothe any fear or doubt. She made each of us feel seen and cherished. Time and again, Irene was the one we turned to, and she saved us—whether through her strength, her words, or her unwavering love. She was the silent hero of our lives, always stepping up when we needed her most, often in ways we could never fully thank her for.

Her legacy of love, kindness, and strength will forever be carried on by all those whose lives she touched.

Irene is survived by her husband, Gary King Sr.; her son, Gary (Kim) King Jr., and her daughter, Patricia King, who will carry forward the lessons of love and kindness instilled by their mother. She was the proud grandmother of seven grandchildren: Jacquelynn King, Amber (Doug) Ross, Adam (Rachel) King, Clayton King, Lauren King, Gary King III, and Virgil "Louie" Brissette. Each one of her grandchildren held a special place in her heart, and she adored her role as "Nana" to each of them. Furthermore, she leaves behind six great-grandchildren: Elizabeth King, Madalynn King, Abbagail King, Gabriel King, Pierson King O'Connell, and Charlotte Ross, who brought her infinite joy and laughter.

Irene’s family tree reached out further, encompassing two brothers, Eugene (Ginny) Hinspeter and James Tsapelas, along with a host of extended family and friends who were touched by her spirit.

Her legacy continues as a testament to what it means to be kind, creative, and deeply loving. She was preceded in death by her mother, Lucy Tsapelas; father, Theodore Tsapelas; and sister, Virginia Tsapelas, whose memories will now be cherished alongside her own.

In the hearts of those who were fortunate to know her, Irene A. King will forever remain a beacon of compassion and unwavering support. Her love and kindness have left an indelible mark on the world, and she will be profoundly missed.