Irma Louise (nee Conley) Kendall, 84, of Orrville passed away Monday, December 30, 2024 at Life Care Hospice in Wooster after a brief illness.

She was born in Clearfield Kentucky to James “Addie” Conley and Myrtle (Cundiff) Conley on June 23, 1940.  She lived with her family for a brief period in Michigan so her father could work at one of the factories building armaments for WWII.  The family then moved to Southeast Ohio where Irma, or “Louise” as she was known to family and childhood friends, lived, married for the first time and raised her three children, Anthony, Tina, and Tammy.

Irma found the energy to both raise her family and work outside of the home. In the Zanesville area, she worked at a number of jobs including manufacturing and sales including being a door-to-door “Avon lady” in the 70s with a long list of dedicated clients.  Through her connection with the International Association of Machinists in 1983 she met the love of her life, Don Kendall of Wooster, and moved to the Wooster area where she made many new friends.

She was a skillful storyteller and entertained family and friends with stories about mishaps and adventures like ‘groundhog hill’ and characters from her childhood.  A quintessential grandmother, she sometimes spoiled her grandchildren and great grandchildren but also kept them in line.

Through her adult life, Irma was a collector of pottery made in and around Zanesville including Roseville, Weller, McCoy, Watt and others.  She shared her love of antiquing with friends and family and had great times seeking out that special piece for her collection. A card playing enthusiast, especially euchre, Irma was always up for a game and if you didn’t know how to play, she had the patience to teach you.

Irma had a flair for style!  People who met her frequently commented about her chic outfits and beautiful jewelry and anyone who visited her home would likely comment on her decorating skills.

Irma was much loved and will be missed by all who knew her.  She is survived by her daughters Tina Dunphy and Tammy (Pete) Knapp, her grandchildren Ryan Morgan, Trisha Morgan (Troy Dunham), David Morgan, Jimmy Dunphy and Brendan Dunphy, her great grandchildren and many beloved nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in her death by her parents, sister Mary Avis Hollingsworth, brother “Junior” Conley, husband, Don Kendall, son Anthony McConnell, a grandson Shane Dunphy, and a special friend Howard Griffith.

A private service will be held.

McIntire, Bradham, & Sleek Funeral Home 216 Larwill St., Wooster is assisting the family.

Online condolences may be directed to the family at www.mcintirebradhamsleek.com.