Irene Kinsey

Irene Kinsey, 89, of Gulfport, Mississippi, passed away peacefully on Monday, June 1, 2026.

Born in Chacora, MS, Irene lived a life rooted in faith, family, and the simple joys that brought her happiness. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose love and presence shaped generations of her family.

Irene was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jesse Kinsey, who passed away 18 years ago. Though she missed him dearly and often spoke of the day they would be reunited, she continued to treasure the life and family she loved so deeply. Those closest to Irene often smiled at her stubborn streak and strong-willed qualities that carried her through life with determination and grit. After a long and well-lived life, she has now made her journey home.

She was also preceded in death by her parents, as well as her grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Hardy Pope, who raised her as one of their own from infancy.

The family finds comfort in knowing she is now reunited with Jesse, and the loved ones who welcomed her into Heaven.

Left to cherish her memory are her children, Eddie Kinsey (Darla), Steve Kinsey (Lorie), and Lisa Hammett-Howell (James). She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren, Brittney Kinsey, Rachel Lee, Tyler Hammett, Cody Hammett, Kyle Kinsey, Kristen Williams, and Kameron Kinsey, along with her beloved great-grandchildren, Jude, Keely, Sunny, and Goldie, each of whom brought her tremendous pride, joy, and love.

Anyone who knew Irene knew the depth of her love for family. Holidays held a special place in her heart, and her Christmas candy-making was a treasured tradition eagerly anticipated year after year. She enjoyed life’s sweeter moments as well, never turning down a Little Debbie treat, especially the white cakes she loved so much.

Her faith remained an important and steady part of her life. Irene found comfort in listening to Jimmy Swaggart’s services, drawing peace from the messages and music. She also enjoyed keeping up with current events and rarely missed a day of watching Fox News.

Irene possessed both a tender heart and a spirited personality. She could be sassy, opinionated, and full of fire, keeping those around her on their toes, but beneath it all was a woman who loved deeply and treasured the attention, companionship, and presence of the people she cared about most.

Though her family grieves her loss, they celebrate a life rich in love, tradition, and devotion. Her memory will live on in family gatherings, Christmas candy recipes, shared laughter, and the generations of family blessed by her love.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 4, 2026, at Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home, 1726 15th Street, Gulfport, where friends may visit beginning at 1:00 p.m. Interment will follow at Evergreen Cemetery.

Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Irene Kinsey.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.”

— Matthew 25:23