Irene E. Finley

Irene E. Finley, a devoted nurse and steadfast presence in the lives of those around her, passed away peacefully at her home in Nixa, Missouri, where she had lived for more than 35 years.
Born Irene E. Millward in Mt. Pleasant, Pennsylvania, she was the daughter of Jesse Clarence and Margret Elizabeth (Huffman) Millward. She married Dennis Finley, with whom she shared 53 years of marriage-a union marked by perseverance, loyalty, and shared purpose.
Irene dedicated 44 years to the field of nursing, specializing in oncology at Cox Medical Center. Her career was marked by tireless service, clinical excellence, and deep compassion. She was a calming presence in difficult moments-comforting patients, supporting families, and advocating for dignity in care. Much of this work was carried out during the night shift, where Irene's steadiness and skill brought comfort in the most vulnerable hours. Beyond her bedside work, she mentored younger nurses and helped shape the culture of her department, fostering an environment grounded in professionalism, empathy, and quiet conviction. Her influence extended through generations of caregivers, and her legacy remains in the standards she upheld and the lives she touched.
Though her professional life demanded much, Irene remained deeply connected to her family. In her later years, she was lovingly supported by her son, Travis Finley, and his wife Julie, whose care and companionship brought strength and comfort during her final chapter.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Dennis Finley; two of her three children, Tonya Coburn and Terry Finley; her grandson, Jessie McCoy; her parents, Jesse and Margret Millward; her in-laws, George and Opal Finley; her siblings Grace Booker, Kenneth Millward, Mary Jane Marion, Bud Millward, and Will Millward; her brother-in-law Dean Finley; and her nephew David Finley.
She is survived by son Travis and Julie Finley, and by her grandchildren; Bryan and Sarah Bolin, TJ Coburn, Sean Coburn, Michael and Sophie McCoy, and Matt and Amanda McCoy. Her legacy continues through her great-grandchildren; Peyton, Blaine, Olivia, Tylr, Kyndael, Clyde, Lillian, Rylee, Carter, Tonya, Katherina, Valerie, and Atlas, and her great-great-grandchildren, including a great-great-grandson, Jacob, and a great-great-granddaughter on the way.
She is also survived by her brother and sister-in-law, Dave and Mindy Finley, along with eight nieces and nephews and several great-nieces and great-nephews.
As a member of North Nixa Baptist Church, Irene lived with steady faith and enduring grace. She will be remembered not only for her decades of service in healthcare, but also for her resilience, her sense of duty, and the lasting impact she made on those who knew her.
Her life was one of purpose, and her legacy endures in the lives she touched-with care, with compassion, and with graceful dignity.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to all who supported Irene throughout her life and final days. Your kindness, memories, and prayers are deeply appreciated. In honoring her, may we carry forward the spirit of compassion and calm resolve she embodied so faithfully.