04/24/2025
Long Time P.L.A.Y. Member James D. Irby, Brother of Alex and Julia Irby.
Service will be held April 25th at 11:00 AM at Pine Hills Funeral Chapel in Orofino.
Internment at Sanders Cemetery on Wells Bench
Potluck gathering at Alex and Julia Irby's on Grangemont road following. See article for more information.
James Dudley Irby, age 80, of Orofino, Idaho, passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones. James was a devoted husband, proud father, grandfather, great-grandfather, beloved brother, veteran and a steadfast friend to many.
James was born January 10, 1945 to James P. and Angeline Irby at Weiser, Idaho. A few years later the family moved to Orofino, Idaho.
Born with a deep love of the outdoors and a strong work ethic, James spent many years working at Potlatch, Jaype Lumber Mill, Pierce, Idaho, where he was respected not only for his dedication and skill, but also as a mentor to many younger workers who considered him both a teacher and a friend. His steady presence and kind guidance left a lasting impression on everyone he worked with.
James served his country with honor in the Army National Guard from 1963-1969, including active duty during the Viet Nam War. His service was a source of quiet pride, and he carried that sense of duty and loyalty into all aspects of his life.
Outside of work James was known as an avid fisherman. James loved traveling, playing cards and spending time in the great outdoors in any way he could. Whether it was a quiet day by the river or a road trip with the family, he found joy in simple pleasures and shared that joy freely with others.
James Irby and Deena McCallum Harris were married May 3, 1986.
James was given the gift of faith in the Triune God – Father, Son and Holy Spirit, through the Sacrament of Holy Baptism on March 15, 1987 at Peace Lutheran Church, CLC, Orofino, Idaho.
James is survived by his loving wife, Deena Irby, and their children: Ray (Christy) Irby, Donna (Gary) Wilson, Suzanne Irby, Treon Rogers and Ben Harris.
He was proud grandfather to: Renee (Josh) Reasoner, Cade Irby, James Irby, Kelley Moody, Dylan Wilson, Arden Reuben, Ardath Reuben, Amber (Cody) Sipes, Eric Harris and Kaleb Harris. He also leaves behind seven great-grandchildren who brought him joy in his later years.
James is also survived by his brother Alex (Julia) Irby, and sisters: Hattie (Butch) Hodges, Patricia Farrington and Connie (Melton) Keith, along with many cherished nieces and nephews.
James was preceded in death by his parents, James and Angeline Irby, grandchild, Melissa Moody, and Brother-in-Law, Richard Farrington.
James will be remembered for his kind heart, quiet humor, deep wisdom and unwavering love for his wife, family, friends and community. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched.
Service will be held at Pine Hills Funeral Chapel in Orofino, Idaho on April 25, 2025 at 11 a.m., with a graveside service with military honors at Sanders Cemetery on Wells Bench Road to follow.
There will be a potluck held at the home of Alex Irby at 58 Preston Drive, Orofino, following the graveside service.
“Those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us every day.”
