Irma Graham Autrey

Irma Ruth Graham Autrey 95 of Sanford, passed away on Saturday December 3, 2022. Graveside services will be held on Saturday, December 10, 2022, at 2PM at Union Presbyterian Church Cemetery in Carthage, NC.

Mrs. Autrey was born June 6, 1927, in Vass, NC, daughter of William and Lillian Graham. She was preceded in death by her husband of 67 years, Alsie Vaiden “AV” Autrey Jr., brother William John Graham and sisters, Lavonne Gwyn and Janice Hall. She graduated from Vass Lakeview School as the Valedictorian of her class and Elon College. On June 27, 1948, she married AV Autrey Jr. at Union Presbyterian Church. In 1965, they moved to Sanford, NC. She taught first grade at Deep River School for 23 years and was an active member of First Presbyterian Church in Sanford. She received the lifetime membership award at the church. She was a member of Greenthumb Garden and took great pride in her flowers around the home. Both AV and Irma enjoyed traveling in their RV all over the US including Alaska. They took the grandchildren on several trips throughout the summer as well. Irma and AV square danced in the Sandpiper Square Dance Club and she also line danced with many friends and performed at different events. She was a very positive Christian lady, also known as the flower lady and her smile greeted all.

Surviving are her children, Betsy Holzworth of Kansas, Larry Autrey and wife Terry of Florida, and Linda Foushee and husband Edwin of Sanford, NC. Grandchildren, Karl Holzworth (Kayla), Steve Holzworth (Thao), Karen McMillen (Tommy), Morgan Baker (Daniel “Bigshot”), Celia Miars (Pete), Brandon Autrey (Bing) and Megan Autrey. Great-grandchildren, Paxton and Levi Holzworth; Tye, Steven and Sophia Holzworth; Madalynn Tuck, Gauge and Jayden McMillen; Bryson and Calleigh Baker; Virginia and Hayes Miars.

A special thank you to all the staff at Parkview Retirement for the wonderful care they gave her. And a special thank you for the support from all at Community Homehealth and Hospice.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Breadbasket of Sanford 140 E Chisholm St, Sanford, NC 27330.