Irene Garvin

Irene Alfonso (Goldsboro) Garvin, 91, of Wilmington, DE, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, October 20, 2025, surrounded by her loved ones.

Irene was born on September 24, 1934, in Clayton, DE, to the late John and Della Elizabeth. (Wisher) Goldsboro. She received her early education at Kenton Elementary School and Booker T. Washington School in Dover, DE.

She dedicated many years to working at W.L. Wheatley Canning Factory in Clayton, DE. Eventually, she relocated to Wilmington, DE, where she married James Garvin and lovingly raised her children. She also worked for the Red Clay School District and retired after 25 years of service.

After relocating to the city, she often took weekend trips to the countryside to visit family and friends. Irene was devoted to the Lord and belonged to Celebration Christian Church, led by her cherished son, Pastor Reginald Goldsboro. Her favorite hymn was Amazing Grace.

Irene had a spunky personality and a warm, generous spirit that made everyone feel at home. She loved cooking for her family, especially during holidays and special gatherings, where her kitchen was always filled with laughter, love, and the aroma of her delicious meals. Irene will be remembered for her unwavering faith, her joy for life, her spunk, and the love she poured into every meal, every smile, and every moment shared with those she loved.

She leaves cherished memories of a life well lived with her children, Reginald Goldsboro (Geneva) of Bear, DE, Sandra Peak, and Karen Goldsboro of Wilmington, DE. She is also survived by grandchildren Anthony Peak Jr., Erica Peak, Dion (Tia) Peak, Menagerie Peak, all of Wilmington, DE; Brandon (Melinda) Peak of Penns Grove, NJ; Brittany Goldsboro of Bowie, MD; and Kristin (Brandon) Blackwell of Laurel, MD. She leaves behind 20 great-grandchildren, 2 sisters, Doris Simmons and Jean Miller of Dover, DE; 2 sisters-in-law, Eunice Scott and Minnie Garvin of FL; 2 brothers-in-law, Nathaniel Garvin of FL and Cleveland Garvin of Rahway, NJ; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and cherished friends.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband James Garvin, daughter Stephanie Goldsboro, brothers John and Charles Goldsboro, and sisters Lucille Wilson, Elizabeth Conner, and Gladys Wilson.