Dennis Dean Irby

Dennis Dean Irby danced his way into his eternal home with the Lord on February 22, 2026. Born in Peoria, IL on October 29, 1961, to John Irby Sr. and Bessie Irby, Dennis was a man who lived life with rhythm, joy, and a heart full of faith. A dedicated worker, Dennis spent many years contributing to his community through the Community Workshop and Training Center before retiring in 1998. But retirement only gave him more time to learn about the things he loved most. Whether he was catching a beat to his favorite music, gliding across a skating rink, or showing off his moves on the dance floor, Dennis knew how to keep the party going. He found peace in the simple things taking long walks, tending to his yard, and lifting his voice in song at church, where his love for Jesus shone brightest.

Known affectionately by his family as "Mack Daddy," Dennis was famous for dropping by, spreading joy, and never leaving without "packing up a meal" to go. Above all else, he was a man who adored his family. His daughter and grandchildren were the lights of his life, and his nieces and nephews held a very special place in his heart. Dennis leaves his beautiful memory to be cherished by his one and only daughter Laseka Devine, his two grandchildren, Tarlan and Tashya, his brothers Gary Irby and John Irby Jr., and Byron Irby. He is also survived by his sisters Victoria Nealy, Debra Ann McCall, Renée Irby Mabry, and Brenda Irby, stepsisters Ivy Irby and Latonya Irby, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Dennis was preceded in death and joyfully reunited with his brothers Anthony Little Brian Irby and Dion Irby. He will be remembered every time a good song plays, every time a garden grows, and every time his family gathers to share a meal and a laugh.

Services for Dennis will be held on March 6th, 2026, at 10:00 am at Pillar of the Truth, 1001 S. Greenlaw Ave, Peoria, IL 61605