Irene Cornelia Burney Mitchell, a beloved woman of faith, music, service, and grace, was born on November 7, 1951, in Hazlehurst, Georgia. She was the youngest of eleven children born to devoted Christian parents, the late Rev. Charlie S. Burney, Sr., and his loving wife, Ida Parker Burney. Raised in a home grounded in faith, hard work, and love, Irene's life became a living testimony of perseverance, purpose, and praise.

At an early age, Irene gave her life to Christ, beginning a lifelong walk of faith that guided every aspect of her life. Some of her earliest memories included singing her first solo at 3 years old, at Kirkland Grove, where her father faithfully served as a pastor. That sacred moment marked the beginning of an anointed Gospel soloist ministry. Irene joyfully shared the Word of God through song, touching countless lives with her voice, spirit, and unwavering devotion. Her ministry was later recognized with accolades, including being voted the #1 Gospel singer, an honor she humbly attributed to God.

Irene was educated at Jeff Davis High School in Hazlehurst, Georgia, and continued her studies at Fort Valley State College (now Fort Valley State University) and Macon Area Technical and Vocational School. She began her professional career in executive and administrative assistant roles and business administration within the financial industry, where she was respected for her professionalism, and integrity.

As a young woman, Irene was creative and enterprising. She was a gifted and talented seamstress. She could, and often did, recreate any garment she admired, generously sharing this gift with her family by sewing clothing made with love, care, and precision. Irene also loved to cook. She often grilled during the summer months and found great joy in hosting family dinners and holiday gatherings that brought loved ones together.

In the early 1970s, Irene moved to Denver, Colorado, seeking job opportunities and a supportive community around siblings who had settled there. It was there that she met, was courted by, and married Gerald Mitchell. Their union was a meaningful chapter in her life and Irene continued to treasure the lessons and memories it brought. Two children were born to this union making Irene a mom of three.

Understanding the importance of education, Irene strongly emphasized its value to her children. Once they reached young adulthood, she returned to school at the Community College of Denver and later earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Metropolitan State University in Denver, Colorado. Following graduation, Irene answered a calling to service as an addiction's counselor, offering compassion, guidance, and hope to those seeking recovery and restoration. Though she later retired, her servant's heart led her back to work part-time as a substitute teacher for a local school district, where she continued to impact lives through encouragement and care.

A lover of people, Irene never met a stranger. She possessed a warm spirit, a welcoming smile, and a genuine love for others that made everyone feel seen and valued. Family and friends were among her greatest treasures, and she nurtured those relationships with deep care and devotion.

Irene leaves to cherish her loving memory and legacy of faith her devoted daughters, Tashmesia Mitchell and Aminada Mitchell, and her beloved grandchildren: Akeri Quincer, Jonah Watts, Jayla Watts, and Taylor Whitney, who were the joy of her life. She is also survived by one loving sibling, Paulene D. Story and a host of family members and godchildren.

Irene was preceded in death by her beloved son, Ugande Desmoine Burney, and siblings: Jennie P. Hall, Maxie L. Burney, Charlie R. Burney, John I. Burney, Deglouris Wooten, Genevieve B. Redmond, and Edna M. Burney.

Irene's life was one of praise, perseverance, generosity, and love. Though her earthly song has ended, her melody will forever echo in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. She will be remembered as a faithful servant of God, an anointed Gospel singer, a devoted mother and grandmother, a fun-loving friend, and a woman whose life truly made a difference. Though our hearts are heavy with grief, we find comfort knowing that Irene is now singing in the heavenly choir, her voice joined with the angels in eternal praise. Her legacy of faith, love, and service will continue to inspire all who knew her.