of Searcy, AR
November 8, 1935 - June 9, 2022
Irene Miller Apple age 86, of Searcy, formerly Little Rock, died Thursday June 9, 2022. She was born November 8, 1935 in DeWitt to Melvin and Esther Miller. Irene was preceded in death by her parents; her husband of 59 years, Bill Apple; and son, Billy. She is survived by her daughter, Vicki Olmstead (Guy); sister, Kay Knight (John); five grandchildren, William Apple, Skylar Apple, Greg Olmstead (Meredith), Ray Olmstead (Jinna) and James Olmstead; six great-grandchildren, Noah, Peter, Adah, Thea, Ethan and Conner Olmstead and three nephews, John Marcus, Karl and Grant Knight.
Irene was an honor graduate of DeWitt High School and attended Henderson State University in Arkadelphia for two years, while there, being named one of the college's beauties. In 1955 she moved to Little Rock where she met Bill, the love of her life, during the Miss Hospitality contest. They married in 1956 and made their home in Little Rock, raising their two children. Irene was a charter member of the L.R. Junior Departmental Club, volunteering her services to help fund charities and was a secretary for Four States Realty. She was a member of Pulaski Heights United Methodist Church. Irene and Bill enjoyed traveling the USA, Europe and cruising the Caribbean. The family spent many summer vacations at the family beach house in Gulf Shores.
Irene enjoyed weekly bridge games with her friends. She was an avid reader and loved to play the piano. She enjoyed listening to both classical music and rock and roll. Having a gift for interior decorating, she loved shopping in the boutiques of Little Rock adding to her beautiful collections. Her daily passion was working crossword puzzles and she had to tune into her favorite soap opera. Family was the most important part of Irene's life though. She loved playing games and baking goodies for the grandchildren. Having family gatherings over to celebrate holidays and birthdays were especially meaningful to her.
Irene lived in Little Rock for 62 years. As her health declined she moved to Searcy in 2018 to be closer to her daughter.
Graveside service for Irene Apple will be at Roselawn Cemetery in Little Rock, 11:00 a.m. Tuesday June 14, 2022.
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7 Condolence(s)
Harlan Butler
Wednesday, July 13, 2022
Irene has always been in my life. I can not remember when she was not there.
I was a small child in the neighborhood in DeWitt, Arkansas. I knew Irene as the most beautiful girl in town and also the nicest.
Her passing leaves a void in this world.
John Knight
Friday, June 17, 2022
Dear Irene, you were a most wonderful sister-in-law for 50+ years! You will be greatly missed.
Sherry Knight Stark
Monday, June 13, 2022
My sincere condolences for the family and friends of Irene. May her sweet memories give you comfort during this most difficult time.
Susan Jones Boe
Monday, June 13, 2022
The Joneses who lived on Pleasant Place with your family are so sorry for your loss. We lost Daddy in November and have sold his house on Pleasant Place. I hope you are comforted by a wonderful lifetime of memories as we are. Mark, Stephen, Susan and David
John Marcus Knight
Sunday, June 12, 2022
Very sad to hear about Aunt Irene's passing. I have lots of happy memories visiting her house during the summers and winter. Christmases there were especially magical. Irene and Uncle Bill were so kind and welcoming that I never wanted to leave. Each room in their house had its own special feel, thanks to Irene's knack at decorating. Irene was also a great cook, making delicious dinner rolls that I looked forward to eating every night.
Reggie Beck
Saturday, June 11, 2022
Vicki. I always loved playing with Billy. So sorry about your mom.
Reggie Beck
Joe Beck
Saturday, June 11, 2022
Vicki- so sorry for your loss. She was a gentle soul and my mama’s great friend on N. Plaza. Rest In Peace.