Irene Ayers Rolison

Irene was born on December 30, 1927, in Bemis, she was the cherished daughter of the late Elihue and Annie Maie Babb Ayers. Irene’s life was a testament to faith, family, and service.

For 58 years, Irene was the devoted wife of Perry Rolison, who preceded her in death in 2008. Together, they built a life centered on love, commitment, and unwavering devotion to each other and their family. Irene’s love for her family was second only to her profound love for our Lord Jesus Christ.

Irene dedicated over 40 years of her life working as the laboratory supervisor at the Bemis Cotton Mill. Her work was characterized by integrity, diligence, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

A pillar of faith, Irene was a lifelong member of the former Bemis Pentecostal Church, where she passionately served as the lead teacher and supervisor in the beginner department for 66 years. She instilled Godly morals and values in countless young lives, and her leadership extended to various positions within the Ladies Auxiliary. Irene’s love for God was perhaps most beautifully expressed through her music. She sang in the church choir, participated in duets and groups, and was particularly fond of her role as the soprano in The Harmony Girls Trio. The Trio, a beloved group that sang all over the South, was a cherished part of her life for many years.

In her later years, Irene became a member of Love and Truth Church, where she continued to be an example of a Godly woman until her illness prevented her from attending.

Irene was a woman of many talents, including her remarkable skills as a seamstress and her ability to crochet special gifts for family and friends. She also had a deep love for planning and preparing meals for family gatherings, where her warmth and hospitality were always on full display. Irene truly embodied the virtues of a Proverbs 31 woman—strong, wise, and full of love.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Perry Rolison; sisters, Imogene Bonczar and Pat Zenor; and brothers, Joel and Bill Ayers.

She is also preceded in death by her parents in law, Mr. And Mrs. C.P. Rolison; sisters in law, Janie Thomason and Alma Rogers; and brothers in law, Vernon Rolison, Joe D. Rolison, and C.P. Rolison, Jr.

Left to cherish her memory are her daughter, Linda Rolison Brewer (Charles); her grandchildren (who affectionately called her Mamaw), Colby Brewer and Wes Brewer (Michelle); her great-grandchildren, Keegan Brewer, Briley Brewer, Sam Brewer, and Owen Brewer; and her sisters-in-law, Glenda Rolison, Cecil Rolison, Carolyn Rolison, and Bitsy Ayers, along with several nieces and nephews.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Gentiva Hospice for especially Kourtney, Liz, Jill, Nesha, Julie, Anna, Brent, as well as caregivers Cherri and Tish for the love and care they provided to Ms. Irene in her final days.

A service to celebrate the life of Irene Rolison will be held on Saturday, August 31, 2024 at 1:00 pm at the South Chapel of George A. Smith and Sons with burial following in Highland Memorial Gardens. Pastor Chris Smith and Pastor Brent Pearce will officiate the service. The family will receive friends beginning at 11 a.m., two hours prior to the service.

Pallbearers to serve will be Wes Brewer, Colby Brewer, Keegan Brewer, Briley Brewer, Owen Brewer, and Sam Brewer.

Irene’s legacy of faith, love, and service will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.