Irma May Barden

IRMA MAY BARDEN, age 98 of Forest Township, died Saturday, June 12, 2021 at her residence. Her funeral service will be held at 1PM on Tuesday, June 15, 2021 at West Forest United Methodist Church, 7292 Farrand Rd., Millington, MI 48746. The family will receive visitors at the church from 11AM until the time of her service. In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to West Forest United Methodist Church.  Irma was born on November 17, 1922 to Thomas and Grace (Anes) Lawler in Brent Creek, MI. She attended James Graham Country School through the 7th grade. She then moved to Flint and attended Utley School for 2 years, before transferring to Otisville High School, where she graduated in 1939. Irma married Joe Barden in 1942 and had two children: Sandra Kay (Gary) Smith and Fred Thomas (Cathy) Barden. She worked as the Forest Twp. Treasurer for six years. She then became a rural sub mail carrier for 12 years and retired from Irvin Hirsch Jewelers after 10 years. Irma enjoyed flowers, canning, and crocheting afghans. Her greatest love and joy, however, was her family. She was so proud of all of them. Irma is survived by her children: Sandra Kay (Gary) Smith and Fred Thomas (Cathy) Barden; grandchildren: Renee (Todd) Willson, Adam (Jean) Barden, Eric (Cheryl) Barden, and Kara (Mark) Brace; great grandchildren: Addison, Elise, Drew, Tyler, Reid, Wesley and Kyle; and sister in-law, Ruth Lawler. She was preceded in death by her husband, Joe; parents; sister, Dorothy (Lawler) Barden; and brother, Thomas "Phil" Lawler.