Irmgard Margarethe Stonbraker

Irmgard Margarethe Preußen Stonbraker, went to walk with Jesus in the garden of Heaven on Monday, September 1, 2025, after her battle with leukemia came to an end. She left peacefully in her home cared for by family and hospice home healthcare. She was 87 years young. Irma was born in Odisheim, Germany, November 8, 1937 to Ernst and Marta Preußen. She was the third child of six, growing up on a farm run by her grandparents who raised all six children after the early deaths of her parents.

In 1959, Irma sailed to the United States, sponsored by her aunt and uncle who lived in New York. Irma became a U.S. citizen in 1995. Irma was a stewardess for American Airlines for several years before meeting and marrying George Stonbraker on May 30, 1970; and they enjoyed 38 years together until George passed away in 2008. They had lived in Ohio until George retired, then moved to their favorite "spot" in Roxboro, North Carolina in 1986. Known for her "green thumb," Irma was honored with "Yard of the Month" locally just last fall. Avid gardener, and fabulous cook, Irma's meals and desserts are the stuff of legend not only in the family, but also of the Roxboro Community, as she managed the Roxboro Country Club lounge serving the golfers and locals breakfast and lunch weekly for 5 years.

A model of hospitality, Irma was ever-ready to host a luncheon or supper at her home, or even just to have you stay for coffee and a nice piece of cake. Dog enthusiast, Irma cared for multiple mutts over the years, but Schnauzers were her favorite. She loved to teach, especially about her German heritage and had taught German at Person Senior High School for 5 years. Irma became an active bowler in the local bowling league, 10 years a member, and met Richard Kramer there. They have been constant companions for 15 years and he is her "forever fiancé."

Preceded in death by her parents, are her two brothers: Gunther and Arthur Preußen; her sister, Valerie; her husband, George Stonbraker and her step-son, Richard Stonbraker.

Irma is survived by her sister, Catharina Wreidt, children, and Arthur's son: Jan; Irma's granddaughter, Joelle Volpe and six great-grandchildren: Gabriel, James, ValerieAnne, Jacob, Vincent and Blaise; as well as the remaining Stonbraker/Stovall/Galloway/ Grau/ Fox Clans of nieces, nephews and cousins.

Irma's service will be held 11 AM Saturday, September 20, 2025 at the Brooks & White Chapel with the Rev. Ed Priestaf and the Fr. Albert Lelo Luemba officiating. She will be interred in the Burchwood Cemetery next to George Stonbraker and with her sister, Valerie Preußen.

Pallbearers will be William Crabtree, Glenn Stovall, Gil Stovall, Alan Stovall, Gabriel Volpe, James Volpe, Jacob Volpe, Vincent Volpe and Blaise Volpe.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Canine Companions, ODC Chapter Treasurer, c/o Terri Laundon, 3000 Ellesmere Drive, Midlothian, VA 23113.

Condolences may be sent to www.brooksandwhite.com.