Irene Manchester

HARRISVILLE - Irene Manchester, 98, passed away peacefully on Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 27, 2025, at the Lewis County General Hospital in Lowville, NY, with her family by her side.

Irene was born at home in East Pitcairn on September 25, 1927, the daughter of Harry and Ruth (Myers) LaCross. She graduated from Harrisville High School in 1944.

A marriage to Harold "Pat" Chartrand ended in divorce. Irene married Nyle Manchester in 1975, and they lived happily together until he passed away in 1997.

As a dedicated mother, Irene diligently provided for her family. After working as a maid at Fort Drum for several years, she transitioned to the restaurant industry as a cook for more than two decades. She held positions at various Harrisville eateries, such as the Twin Maples Snack Bar, LaParr's, and the Village Inn.

Known for her tasty baked goods, including doughnuts and cookies, she often spent Saturday evenings with loved ones, serving homemade chocolate fudge and popcorn. Irene's daughters and their dolls often wore handmade outfits, and she was praised for her cherished, handmade blankets and afghans. Her flower beds were a point of pride, and she frequently commented on how many people stopped to photograph them. Her favorite color was pink; flamingos were among her preferred pink things. Later in life, she resided at Harris Courts and enjoyed playing BINGO. She was beloved by many, particularly Becky and Shannon. Above all, Irene’s greatest joy in life was her family; she was extremely devoted to her loved ones and was always known for helping others in any way she could. She will be dearly missed and will never be forgotten.

She is survived by her children, Kenneth J. Chartrand, Thomas Chartrand, Trudy Fisher, and Patti Frerichs; ten grandchildren, twenty-four great-grandchildren, four great-great-grandchildren, as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Irene is predeceased by her husbands, Harold Patrick Chartrand and Nyle Manchester, a son, Fred Chartrand, in 2024, and a granddaughter, Mackenzie Chartrand, in 2008.

Calling hours will be held from 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM on Friday, December 5, 2025, in the Chapel of the Lundy Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Inc., 500 State St., Carthage, NY. A funeral service will follow at noon at the St. Francis Solanus Catholic Church, 14355 Maple St., Harrisville. Burial will follow in the Pitcairn Cemetery. Online condolences can be made at www.lundyfuneralhome.com.