Evelyn Jeanette Irby-Shoemake was a registered nurse for 28 years.

Irby-Shoemake died April 18, 2012. She was 75.

She was born on July 21, 1936, to the late Arthur and Sarah Irby of Spartanburg, S.C.

At an early age, Irby-Shoemake joined Macedonia Baptist Church under the pastorate of the late Reverent W.L. Wilson. She attended Spartanburg County Public Schools and graduated from Carver High School. She migrated north first to New York, then Philadelphia. There she met and married the late Robert A. Shoemake.

She joined the Shiloh Baptist Church in 1963 under the watch and care of WHR Powell and remained an active member under the pastorate of Rev. Edward Sparkman where she served faithfully until she died. She served in many capacities including president of the Nurses Unit; assistant chaplain, Melinka Missionary Society; soloist, Chorus Singing Unit; and chaplain, WHR Powell Flower Guild. She enjoyed serving in her church, cooking and entertaining her family. She was well loved by her family and was called Auntie Evelyn.

She was employed as a licensed practical nurse for 28 years until she retired. She was also active in her neighborhood as chairperson of the Block Captain Association.

Her family said she never missed an opportunity to talk to others about God, and she greeted everyone with a kiss.

She is survived by her grandson, John Anthony; two great-grandsons; three godchildren, Crystal, Arthur and Corey; two sisters, Jennie (Walter) Fields and Alice (Randy) Williams; and other relatives and friends.

Services will be held April 23 at Shiloh Baptist Church, 2040 Christian Street. Viewing is at 10 a.m. Services will follow at 11. Burial will be in Mt. Peace Cemetery.

Wood Funeral Home handled the arrangements.