Irma Jean (Whittington) Gillen

Irma “Jean” Whittington Gillen, 80, passed away at her home in Kirbyville on Tuesday, December 15, 2020.

Irma was born on May 31, 1940 to Charles Whittington and Flora Robertson in Houston. Owning several businesses over the years, she was passionate about many different things, especially journalism. Irma worked as a proofreader for the Galveston Daily News in the early 60’s where her attention to detail was much needed. She was a long-time resident of Arkansas, where she and her husband Joe pastored Zion’s Light Baptist Church in St. Joe, Arkansas.

Anyone who knew her would describe Irma as kind, hard working and family oriented. A dedicated wife, mother, and child of God, she always put her family and friends before herself. Irma enjoyed being outdoors and traveling, as well as spending time doing jigsaw puzzles. Irma was a compassionate, selfless servant and will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Left to cherish her memory is her son, Stephen Gillen of Kirbyville; her brother, Orron Lewis Belcher Jr. of La Marque; her grandchildren, Kimberly Jean Tabor and husband Ronnie, Jennifer Kay Kiser and husband Billy, Stephen Glen Gillen, Jessica LeeAnn Parker and husband Monty, Sarah Elizabeth Head and husband Jarred; her great-grandchildren, Kelsea Renea Kiser, Cheyenne Kayleen Kiser, Megan Parker, Caleb Parker, Kellus William Gabriel Kiser, Kaden Isaac Tabor, Jaiden Head, Reed Head, Thomas James Tabor, Jett Solomon Tabor, as well as numerous extended family members and friends.

Irma was preceded in death by her parents, Charles Reuben Whittington and Flora Belle Robertson; her loving husband, Joseph Gabriel Gillen Jr.; her daughter, Delores Gillen Taylor; and her sisters, Martha Belle Whittington, and Lois Juanita Belcher.

A life honoring memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 2, 2021 at 1:00PM at Abundant Life Church, 610S Elizabeth Ave Kirbyville, TX 75956.

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