Irene S. Brentley

On Jan 1, 1929, Irene Smith Brentley affectionately called "Netta" was born to the late Robert Smith and Roxie Harrison Smith in Mecklenburg County, N.C. She departed this life November 27th, 2025, after a long illness with dementia in University Place Nursing Home and Rehabilitation Center, Charlotte, N.C. She was preceded in death by her late husband Rev. Dr. Roy Brentley, Jr.

She was educated in Mecklenburg County, N.C., and moved to New York City in her youthful years to further her education and became a licensed RN. She was employed at Long Island Jewish Hospital.

She was married to Rev. Roy Brentley Jr. on Nov 27th, 1965 in East Cleveland, OH. She became the mother of two bonus children, Carolyn (age 8) and Aleta (age 4). Irene, a devoted Presbyterian, introduced her husband to the Presbytery and in 1969, the family moved to Pasadena, California, where Rev. Brentley Jr. was ordained as Pastor of the Lincoln Ave Presbyterian Church. In her role as a Pastor's wife, she was actively involved in community service. She served organizations for people with disabilities/handicaps as well as senior citizens. In the church, she often led the Vacation Bible Schools and would be the host of many hospitality events. She maintained employment as a Private Nurse and also worked in private Housekeeping. She enjoyed playing the Harp, and sewing. Her designs were unique, and she often made matching Mom and daughters’ outfits.

In 1977 the family returned to East Cleveland to be closer to their parents, located in Pittsburgh and North Carolina. While residing in East Cleveland, Irene continued Private Nursing and started baking as a hobby that became her passion. Her reputation as a baker became so popular that she became an entrepreneur and was a vendor at the Farmers Market in East Cleveland. Her specialties were 7-Up pound cake, Sweet Potato Pie, Fried Pies, and Tea Cakes. Another hobby she enjoyed was purchasing rifles. As a child, she learned how to shoot from her big brother, so she didn’t mind letting you know who was in charge if you messed with her or her property. She learned how to play the piano and organ and was a graduate of the Moody Bible Institute. She was a member of

Greater Peace Missionary Baptist Church, Cleveland Heights, OH, where she served as an Usher and served in the Hospitality Ministry.

In 2005, Irene and Roy retired and relocated to Cornelius, N.C., and resided there as their last residence. She was a faithful member of Davidson Presbyterian Church, Davidson, N.C.

She was the youngest of four siblings and was preceded in death by her brothers John and J.L. (Lola) and sisters Maggie (Sam) and Robbie. She is leaving to mourn: her two daughters Carolyn Elizabeth Brentley and Aleta Denise Brentley Johnson.

Grandchildren: Stephen (Tonya), DJ, Daniel, Michael, Marlon, Sean Quenga (Johnson), two great grandchildren Jayden and Jordyn, several In-Laws, and a host of nieces and nephews.

Irene lived a life well lived! Irene LOVED the Lord! In her last days, her hands stayed in prayer posture. She was ready to go home!

A Special Thank you to the Fulfords (David and Stacy), and her nieces, Erving, Odessa, Roxanne, Veronica/(Sweetpea), Ruschella, Christina; nephews Russell, Larry Sr, Larry Jr, and the Davidson Church Family and Friends.