WILMINGTON — Irene Noel Stein, born June 22, 1934, in Portage, Pennsylvania, passed away April 23rd, peacefully at the age of 90 in Wilmington, North Carolina. Irene was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Irene was married to the late Walter Edgar Stein, with whom she shared a life full of love and cherished memories. She was the devoted mother of Carol Stein (husband Ronnie Gardner), Diane Stein, Craig (wife Sue Stein), and Gail (husband Brian Workman), and a proud grandmother to Sierra Stein, Gabe Stein, Derek Workman, Dylan Workman, and Dakota Workman.
Irene was preceded in death by her dear sister, Agnes Noel Miller, her brother, Fr. Damien, and her beloved husband, Walter Edgar Stein. She is survived sister Rosemary Combs and her loving children, grandchildren, and many extended family members who will forever carry her memory in their hearts.
Irene spent her early childhood in Portage, then after several homes in Pittsburgh, her family eventually settling in the South Hills on Fallowfield Avenue. She loved the proximity to Beechview and the ease with which she could take the trolley into the heart of Pittsburgh. Irene graduated from Elizabeth Seton High School, where walking the steep, two-mile hill to school twice daily was a testament to her determination and strength.
At just 16 years old, Irene’s first job was at the local 5&10 store, earning 25 cents an hour. She later attended Business Training School, learning shorthand, typing, and office skills. In June 1953, she began her career at Alcoa in downtown Pittsburgh, where she worked until 1956.
In April of 1955, Irene married Walter Stein and their first home was on Belaire Drive in Pittsburgh, PA. All the children began their lives here and enjoyed a large backyard while she was keeping an eye from the kitchen window. They enjoyed many activities and cherished their vacations to Ocean City, NJ with dear friends and Winnie (his sister), Jack Hoffman, and their children.
In 1965, Irene’s life took a new direction when Walter was transferred to NYC and her family moved to Yorktown, NY. A memorable moment from their arrival was discovering a diaper bag left on the front porch. Dad jokingly called it an omen—and he was right. In 1966, Gail was born in White Plains, NY.
After Gail entered middle school, Irene continued to thrive in her career and personal life. In Yorktown, Irene worked as an executive assistant to the Superintendent at Lakeland School District. But beyond her professional accomplishments, Irene was known for her wide array of hobbies. She excelled in softball, bowling, and even clinched a victory in a Mother-Daughter Basketball Tournament in 1980. Among her many personal milestones was competing in the National Bowling Tournament in Oregon. Her love for sports was only matched by her dedication to supporting her family – especially during the countless West Point football tailgates she and Walt enjoyed with the neighbors.
In 1986, Irene and Walt began a new chapter, retiring to Wilmington, NC, where Irene thrived in her active retirement. The couple traveled extensively across Europe, visiting Greece, Portugal, Germany, Ireland, Scotland, and Italy, among other destinations. While these trips were filled with adventure and cherished memories, Irene also developed a passion for tennis. Her involvement in the local tennis scene, along with a strong support circle of friends, kept her active as she traveled to state and regional tournaments.
Irene’s faith was central to her life. She was a member of St. Therese Catholic Church, where she routinely volunteered and was a servant member. A woman of faith, grace, and kindness, Irene’s spirit will live on in the hearts of her family and all who knew her. Her legacy of love and devotion will continue to inspire those who were fortunate to be part of her life.
Beyond her tennis, Irene’s love for the water never waned. From her early days in Ocean City, NJ, to her life in Wilmington, Irene spent countless days at the beach, where her home at MacCumber Terrace became a beloved destination for friends and family. She and Walt were integral members of their community, organizing multiple holiday events, covered dish nights and the famous neighborhood annual 4th of July parade.
Irene’s life was one of joy, adventure, and incredible achievement. She touched the lives of many, and her memory will live on through the countless stories of her generosity, energy, and unwavering love for her family and friends.
Visitation will be at Andrews Mortuary, 1617 Market Street from 3:00pm to 5:00pm Wednesday, May 7, 2025.
A Funeral Mass will be held at 12:00pm Thursday, May 8, 2025, at St. Therese Catholic Church, 209 S. Lumina Ave, Wrightsville Beach and gathering afterwards at the Parish Hall.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Lower Cape Fear Life Care, Wilmington, NC. The family extends their heartfelt thanks to everyone for their support during this time of loss.
Rest in peace, Irene—your remarkable journey and vibrant spirit will never be forgotten.
