Iris Neil Littlejohn

EARL - Iris Neil Littlejohn died on April 25, 2013, at her home in Colorado Springs after a brave struggle with a long illness.
She was born in Shelby on Dec. 22, 1929, to Vangie McKee Roberts and Cecil Neil Wilkie.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Charles H. Littlejohn; and a son, Charles H. Littlejohn III; as well as a brother, Clyde Gene Wilkie.
She is survived by a daughter, Karen Littlejohn of Colorado Springs, Colorado; and a sister, Beth Roberts Curtis and her husband, Jim, of North Myrtle Beach, S.C.; as well as nephews, Tyler Patrick of Greensboro and Jimee Wilkie of Lake City, Florida.
After her marriage in 1952 she moved to Denver, Colorado where she lived for over forty years. Her career included work as a bookkeeper, office manager and business owner. In 1991 she and her husband moved to North Myrtle Beach, S.C. where she lived until 2003. She then returned to Colorado Springs, Colorado to be with her daughter.
Even though she spent most of her life in Colorado, Iris always referred to herself as a southerner. She loved the Carolinas and was able to fulfill her dream of retiring to Myrtle Beach. She was active in politics and was a passionate conservative who loved her country and especially enjoyed displaying ""Old Glory."
She was a voracious reader and loved music of all kinds. She played piano and guitar and was a member of many choirs. A faithful alumni of Shelby High School class of 1948 she could still recite and sing the Shelby High School fight song up until she died. She enjoyed talk radio immensely and in the last few years became an avid fan of both the Denver Broncos and the Colorado Rockies.
Those who loved her knew she never backed down from a challenge and her ability to face adversity inspired many whose lives she touched. Her family and friends were the love of her life. Even though the miles often separated her from both, she found ways to keep in touch and friends and family were always in her thoughts and in her heart. She was happiest when in the company of those she loved.
Memorials: Pikes Peak Palliative Care and Hospice of Colorado Springs, Colorado or Silver Key Senior Services of Colorado Springs, Colorado or any organization of one's choice.
Graveside service: Friday, 11 a.m., at Sunset Cemetery. A gathering of friends will immediately follow the graveside service in the Carriage Room at Cecil M. Burton Funeral Home and Crematory.
Funeral home: Cecil M Burton Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the family of Mrs. Littlejohn.
Guest Registry: www.cecilmburtonfuneralhome.com.