Irva Lucille Whipple

Irva Lucille Whipple, 87, of Tempe, AZ passed away on Thursday, October 3, 2024 with her children gathered around her. She was born in Jerome, AZ to Earl Houston Reeves and Goldie Jewel Johnston Reeves, July 7, 1937. At an early age she moved to Show Low, AZ where she remained until she moved to Phoenix to attend Lamson Business College. She then worked under then ASU President G. Homer Durham as his personal secretary. 

On September 11, 1959 she married her sweetheart Fred Merlin Whipple in the Mesa Arizona Temple. She was preceded in death by Fred M. Whipple, her parents Earl, Goldie and Violet Reeves and sibling Linda Reeves Taylor. She is survived by her five children; Loren (Tracy) Whipple, Delynn (John) Garrett, Julie (Mark) Bowers, Reed (Eleonora) Whipple and Cyndi (Steven) Mullenaux; 19 grandchildren and 1 great-grandchild. 

Irva was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and homemaker. Raising her family was her top priority and her greatest sense of joy. She was baptized a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at age 12 and remained a faithful member. She served in many capacities and was an example of endless service and compassion for those in need. She and her husband served a mission together in the San Francisco, California mission from 1999-2001 and later served as temple workers in the Mesa, AZ Temple. Irva had many passions including sewing, quilting, cooking, canning, and all ASU sports. Her friendships and neighbors were a key part of her life in which she cherished. 

Funeral Services will be held on Friday, October 11, 2024 at 11:00 am with a Viewing from 9:30-10:30 prior to the start of services at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1050 W. Grove Parkway, Tempe, AZ 85283. Graveside services will be held on Saturday, October, 12, 2024 at the Show Low City Cemetery at 12:30 pm, 240 E. Adams, Show Low, AZ 85901.