With deep sorrow we mourn the unexpected passing of Irene Jeffries, 73, on July 1, 2022. Irene was born January 29, 1949 to Lodis and Iris (Rock) Tuma. She lived and attended public schools in Belleville, Kansas. She was a pre-nursing student at Kansas State University for two years. There she met her soulmate, Phil, and began a wonderful 54-year journey with him through life. She earned a BSN degree in nursing at the KU Medical Center. She worked as an RN at several medical facilities in Massachusetts, Kansas, and Missouri. She had a long career at the Excelsior Springs Medical Center including supervising the Outpatient Services Department during the period when the medical center underwent major expansion. She was tireless in her service to the medical center, medical staff, and especially patients who she treated with the utmost respect and compassion.  

Irene married Philip Jeffries on August 20, 1971 in Belleville, Kansas. She had three sons, Nathan and twins Stuart and Spencer. She cherished her children with her whole heart and was the best mom ever. Caring for twin sons with severe developmental disabilities was an enormous challenge throughout her life, but she accepted it without any reservations. Somehow she had the energy and willpower to balance a life of caring for her children and still work as a nurse. She retired from ESMC in 2012.  

She loved the outdoors especially gardening and taking adventures with her husband. She became a master gardener and spent several years with her gardening buddies tending the historic garden and flowers beds at Watkins Mill State Park. She regularly participated in yoga, Pilates, and hiking with close friends. During her retirement and even before, she and Phil took numerous road trips exploring wonderful places throughout the U.S. and Canada.  

Irene was preceded in death by her son Spencer Jeffries, older brother Jimmie Tuma (Loretta), and her parents. She leaves her husband Phil, son Nathan (Rachel) and grandson Finn Jeffries of Lawrence KS, son Stuart Jeffries of Liberty MO, brother Wayne Tuma (Kim) of Salina KS, brother Brent Tuma (Alvety) of Madison NE, and numerous other family members and dear friends. Her death leaves a giant hole in all who knew her. Irene dealt with some serious health issues especially coronary heart disease and died due to complications related to acute kidney failure. Despite that, she was an active, vibrant person right to the end. She did a great job caring for her health and was able to squeeze 73 years out of a body destined for far less.  

Irene was a gem. She was kind and gentle, but at the same time fierce in her commitments and beliefs. She was a fighter and hard worker, the first to volunteer and the last to leave when something needed to be done. For 54 years, Phil was hers and she was his. They were inseparable and lived a most special life together. No amount of time with Irene was enough. We were all so lucky to be part of her family and circle of friends. You all made her life a joy. Irene, we will miss everything about you.  

Irene was a Kansas gal and loved the wide-open spaces. She will join her son, Spencer, when her ashes are scattered on the Konza Prairie south of Manhattan, KS. Irene’s family requests no gifts. Please contribute to a special cause in Irene’s name if you wish. An informal remembrance visitation will be held July 16, 2-5 PM, at Phil and Irene’s home (2317 Rhonda Rd, Excelsior Springs, MO) where you can mingle with friends and see Irene’s final garden and flowers planted with her own hands. Please check kccremation.com for any updates.