MERIGOMISH - Irene Evelyn Stewart, 80, Valley View Villa, Riverton, formerly of Merigomish, passed away in the presence of family members, Wednesday, August 17, 2016 in the Villa. Born in Merigomish, she was a daughter of the late John and Christina (MacIvor) Stewart. Irene was a hairdresser and had been employed in Port Hawkesbury and New Glasgow during the 60’s and 70’s. She was a member of St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church, Merigomish. Irene was like a “second mother” to her numerous nieces and nephews. She was always available and willing to help family and friends. Surviving are brothers, Grant (Margie) Stewart, Stellarton; Ivor Stewart, New Glasgow; numerous nieces and nephews. Besides her parents, she was predeceased by sister, Roseanne DeCoste; a sister in infancy; brother, Samuel Stewart; sister-in-law, Alice Stewart; nephews, John DeCoste and Roddy Stewart. The family will receive visitors 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Friday in P. & K. MacDonald Funeral Home, New Glasgow from where funeral service will be held 11 a.m. Saturday in the chapel with Rev. Bonnie Wynn officiating. Interment will be in Riverview Cemetery, Merigomish. Donations may be made in Irene’s memory to St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church, Riverview Cemetery or Valley View Villa Recreation Fund. (Please click underlined to access.) To plant Memorial Trees in memory of Irene Evelyn Stewart, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.