Mr. Clenone J. Irvin Sr.

Clenone James Irvin Sr. December 20, 1941- November 26, 2022 Clenone James Irvin Sr. (Clem), of Hamden, Connecticut, departed this life and entered into eternal rest on Saturday, November 26, 2022, at the age of 80. Clenone was born on December 20, 1941 in Millsboro, Delaware. He was the twin brother to Janice Parsons and one of eight children born to the late Theodore B. and Theodosia H. Irvin. Clenone attended the Millsboro public school system until the sixth grade at which time he withdrew to assist his parents with the raising of his siblings. He worked alongside his father with great care and pleasure while selling fruits and produce, as well as learning auto detailing. Clenone had a great love for family, life and laughter, which was well known by his siblings as he enjoyed playing practical jokes on them on many occasions. His humor carried on to his children and grandchildren. Having given his best to assist in raising his siblings he relocated to New Haven Connecticut. He was employed at Majestic (Consolidated) Laundry, where he met the love of his life, Mary Magdalene May. Clenone then went on to work for a host of automotive dealerships including Heller Chevrolet, Bob Matick Chevrolet, and Partyka Chevrolet to name a few. While employed at these dealerships, he worked as a Lead Mechanic and as a Make Ready Technician which led to him opening his own auto detailing business known as Clem’s Auto Waxing and Auto Laundry. Clenone was also employed by Sears, Roebuck and Co. as a mechanic, and by Buchanan Marine where he eventually retired. Clenone was united in Holy Matrimony on June 23, 1963, to Mary M. May, his loving wife of 58 years. Out of this union they had two sons and four daughters. He leaves to cherish his memory and legacy six children: Clenone James (Debra) Irvin Jr. of Hamden Connecticut, Audrey Annette (Ernesto) Galvan of Corpus Christi Texas, Angela Rene (Dennis Jr.) Irvin-Reynolds of Houston Texas, Larry Donell (Carla) Irvin of Hamden Connecticut, Mary VanDella (Corey) Frost of Hamden Connecticut and Tamala Yevette Irvin of Hamden Connecticut; five sisters and one brother: Joyce Hughes of Greenwood Delaware, Janice (Freddie) Parsons of Georgetown Delaware, Marcella Smith of Roxanna Delaware, Barbra (Perry) Reese of Easley South Carolina, Theodore B (Jane) Irvin Jr of Millsboro, Delaware, and Francis Irvin of Maryland and a host of other relatives and friends. Clenone was predeceased by his Beautiful and Loving Wife Mary M. Irvin; Father and Mother Theodore B and Theodosia H Irvin; Sister Shirley and Brother-in-Law Andrew Taylor; Brother-in-Law Harrison Smith; Brother-in-Law Clifford Hughes; two great grandsons, Joel Floyd Jr and Kidd Reynolds. Clenone accepted the Lord as his personal savior and became a member of The Church of God of Prophecy (Cathedral of Higher Praise C.O.G.O.P.) where he faithfully served as a Deacon, member of the Pastor's Aide Committee, Men's Choir and Gospel Choir. He voluntarily and frequently did many repairs in and around the Church. Not because he was asked... but because it needed to be done. He was a member of the Men’s Choir, Gospel Choir, Pastor's Aide Committee, drove and maintained the church bus and van to pick up members for Sunday School as well as many Conventions. He was an awesome mechanic whereby many came to him for advice on buying and repairing the vehicles they had purchased. Clenone (Clem) will forever be loved and deeply missed by his beloved family and friends. He loved the many vehicles that he owned. Each had to have His Special touch. None more than His Precious “Heartbeat” his 2001 Green Chevy Silverado. You could just hear it coming before you even saw it! It had its own distinct sound. He Loved the Dallas Cowboys, Singing, Fishing, Hunting, Swap Meets, Car Shows and of course Playing the guitar in the Church. Self-taught, he would humbly say he wasn’t that good but all who heard him play would say otherwise. His infectious smile would brighten the darkest room and his humor would leave many wanting more. He was adored by All, especially his Grand and Great Grandchildren. He was affectionately known as Pop Pop. You can truly say he was a “Great Man!” Clenone has most definitely earned His Wings and His Royal Crown. Well done thy Good and Faithful Servant.

Mr. Clenone J. Irvin Sr.

December 20, 1941 - November 26, 2022