Obituaries

Irene Margaret McNamara, age 72, died at her home in St. Ignace, Michigan, on June 12, 2025. She was born on January 3, 1953, in Detroit, Michigan, to Alexander E. and Stella Laura Lee (Kemezis) Paul.

Irene grew up in Westland, Michigan, where she met her high school sweetheart and future husband, Timothy Allan McNamara—her "knight in shining armor." They married on September 25, 1970. They started their family, raising two beloved daughters. Irene was a devoted and loving young mother whose children meant the world to her.

A lifelong learner, Irene earned her GED early and went on to attend the University of Michigan–Dearborn and Ann Arbor, where she earned two bachelor’s degrees—one in English Literature and the other in Russian Studies. In the mid-1990s, she traveled to Russia three times as part of a research group through the university, embracing her academic curiosity and adventurous spirit.
Irene and Tim spent many cherished summers in St. Ignace, where she eventually made her home and then purchased the Moran Bay Motel, which she operated until 2022 when she sold it. She was also a devoted member of the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Moran, where her faith in Jehovah God and her love of His Word—instilled from a young age—remained strong throughout her life.

Irene had a passion for travel, with favorite trips to Paris and Vienna, and loved reading, writing, playing piano, painting and collecting rocks. She instilled in her children a love of music and ensured both learned to play the piano, just as she did.

Irene is survived by her daughters, Jennifer (Rich) Mayor of Taylor, Michigan, and Irene Clarke of Ann Arbor, Michigan; grandchildren, Ben Mayor and Alexis Mayor; and her dearest lifelong friend since 7th grade, Sandy, who stood by family members who will deeply her through every chapter of life. She also leaves behind many other dear friends and everyone will miss her.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Timothy Allan McNamara; and parents, Alexander and Stella Paul.

A memorial service will be held on June 23, 2025 at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Moran, Michigan, beginning at 7:00 PM. Service will also be available by Zoom -ID 832 2383 3005: PW 1029.
A private burial will follow. Irene’s final resting place will be at Michigan Memorial Cemetery.