William L. Irby, Sr.

William L. Irby, Sr., 85 of Jackson passed away Saturday, February 5, 2022.  Abiding by his wishes, cremation has taken place and there will be no services held at this time.  A private burial will be at a later date.  

William was born the son of James and Helen (Friend) Irby on June 13, 1936 in Jackson, Nebraska.  He attended and graduated from Jackson High School, with a small amount of time spent in Staples, MN.  William married Catherine Genovese on August 29, 1958 in Chicago, Illinois.  After living in several states, they eventually made Jackson, Nebraska their home.  Bill was a union iron worker for many years and traveled to many different job locations.  Eventually he was employed with Phillips Kiln Services along with his brother Bob (his best friend), son, William L. Irby, Jr and a nephew, Michael Irby.  They traveled all over the United States and some traveled outside of the country.  Bill retired in 1999.

Bill was a member of Glad Tidings Church and loved the Lord. He loved spending time with his family, he had a special bond with each one of his grandchildren, only they know the real adventures they had with grandpa and he was very proud of each one of their accomplishments. He always had a large garden and always enjoyed going out to the woods to cut firewood to keep us warm in the winter.  His generosity and willingness to help others will be missed by many.

He is survived by his loving wife, Catherine Irby of Jackson; children, Edward (Belia) Irby of Homer, Marina (Bill) McPherran of Homer, and Marlena Atwood of Des Moines; siblings, John Irby, Alma Boston, Robert Irby, Donald Irby, Dennis Irby, Linda Patton and Lawrence Irby; grandchildren, Lindsey (Chad) Hermelbracht, Brianna Atwood, Adam (Tressa) McPherran, Colette Irby-Atwood and Katelyn Irby; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; son, William L. Irby, Jr.; and siblings, Lola Ilertson, James Irby, Edna Thompson and Joan Corkin.

In lieu of flowers, please direct donations to The Salvation Army of Siouxland, 1415 Villa Ave, Sioux City, IA 51103 or visit https://centralusa.salvationarmy.org/siouxland/