Dorothy Ann Schanck Irre (1935 – 2024)

Dorothy Ann Schanck Irre, aged 89, passed away peacefully on October 15, 2024. She was a beloved wife, mother, and friend who will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Dorothy Ann Schanck Irre

Dorothy was born and raised in the farmlands of New Jersey. She attended Moravian College before becoming a full-time wife and mother. She later earned her bachelor’s degree from Trenton State College and master’s degree from Georgian Court College. She enjoyed a career teaching English and science in middle schools in Brick Township, New Jersey.

Dorothy was a prolific writer. All her grandchildren cherish framed copies of her poems today.

After retirement, Dorothy and her husband, Edward, lived on the Eastern Shore of Maryland before settling in northwest Virginia.

Having grown up on a farm, Dorothy was a horse enthusiast and spent many of her retirement years volunteering with Talbot Special Riders, an equine therapy project for handicapped children. She always found a way to contribute to her community.

More than anything, Dorothy was a devoted mother and grandmother, treasuring her family above all else. She loved spending time with her grandchildren, baking cookies, reading stories, and having tea parties. She always had an encouraging word, no matter their difficulties.

Dorothy was an accomplished musician who began playing piano as a child and continued throughout her life. She shared her gift as a church organist, choir director, school chorus accompanist, and church pianist as long as she was physically able, and it was one of the great joys of her life.

Dorothy was an avid reader and chocolate chip cookie baker in her free time. She loved to gather people around the table and was a wonderful cook, whether in a fully stocked kitchen or over an open campfire. She enjoyed traveling across the country with her husband in their camper, fishing, and hiking in the mountains.

Dorothy was predeceased by her husband Edward and is survived by her children James (Carrie), Steven (Harolyn), Karen (Ben Sargent), and Thomas (Phuong), as well as 11 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren. Her family was her treasure; she was rich, indeed.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.