Irene Wright Gunnels, age 94, of Anderson, SC, passed away Monday, June 19, 2023, at McCall Hospice House in Simpsonville. Born August 2, 1928, in Anderson County, SC, she was a daughter of the late B.T. Wright and Eula Mae Shaw Wright. She was the devoted wife of James H. Gunnels for 67 years until his death in 2016. She was also preceded in death by her brothers, Millard, Raymond, Oliver, Lumus, and Wilson Wright; and sisters, Elizabeth Garrett, Louise Cole, Kathleen Stancil, and Helen Vaughn. She was the last surviving member of her immediate family. Irene grew up with her family on a cotton farm in Townville, SC. Following her graduation from Fair Play High School, she began a career with Southern Bell that lasted over 40 years. After her retirement, she spent many years caring for her older family members, but she made sure to care for herself as well as she was an avid walker all of her life. She enjoyed boating on the lake and attending Bible studies at Anderson University. She was a faithful Christian and member of Covenant Baptist Church. Everyone she knew would be told, "I love you to pieces". She is survived by the joy of her life, her son Timothy Gunnels (Jose). The family will receive friends Thursday, June 22, 2023, from 6:00-8:00 pm at The McDougald Funeral Home. The funeral service will be held Friday, June 23, 2023, at 11:00 am in the Chapel of The McDougald Funeral Home with Dr. Steve Silvey officiating. Burial will follow at New Silver Brook Cemetery. Flowers will be accepted. Events Visitation Thursday, June 22, 2023 6:00PM - 8:00PM The McDougald Funeral Home 2211 North Main Street Anderson, SC 29621 Email: Gail@mcdougaldfuneralhome.com,laurel@mcdougaldfuneralhome.com Phone: (864) 224-4343 Funeral Service Friday, June 23, 2023 11:00AM The McDougald Funeral Home 2211 North Main Street Anderson, SC 29621 Email: Gail@mcdougaldfuneralhome.com,laurel@mcdougaldfuneralhome.com Phone: (864) 224-4343 Final Resting Place New Silver Brook Cemetery 440 E. Shockley Ferry Road Anderson, SC 29624