Irene Virginia Beshaw – Essex Junction, VT – Irene Virginia Beshaw, 93, passed away peacefully at her home early Tuesday morning, February 7, 2012. She was born in St. Albans on October 7, 1918, the daughter of the late Edson and Nita Washburn (Reynolds). Irene lived in Alburgh during her early years and graduated from St. Albans High School. She was a very compassionate person who cared a great deal for others. Irene opened her home to many and welcomed everyone. She became the mother to her two nephews (Harry and Hugh) when they were of a very young age and raised two loving sons. Irene loved her family, gardening, berry picking, all animals (especially cats), feeding "her" birds, watching I Love Lucy, baking, coffee with friends, and sharing her famous donuts. She married Roy Beshaw on December 3, 1938 who pre-deceased her on May 7, 1996. Irene is survived by her loving sons Harry Washburn and wife Sally and their children Krista Washburn and Riann Washburn McNeill; and Hugh Washburn and wife Lee and children Lisa Valley and Lori Washburn, sister Bertha Smith of Hanksville, 3 great grandchildren, several nieces, nephews, extended family, and many special friends. Irene was pre-deceased by her sister Flora Lindgren, brothers Langdon, Clarence, William, Harry and Sidney Washburn, and niece Phyllis Massie. Although Irene will be dearly missed by both family and the many lifelong friendships she developed throughout the years, the memory of her kindness, warmth, generosity, and love will always be held closely in our hearts. A celebration of Irene's life will be held Monday, February 13, 2012 at 1 pm at Grace United Methodist Church in Essex Junction, VT. A gathering for family and friends will be held at the church immediately following the service. Interment will be in Alburgh at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in her memory to The Humane Society of Chittenden County, 142 Kindness Court, South Burlington, VT 05403. Arrangements are in care of Ready Funeral Home.