Ms. Irene Michelle Downs was born on January 8, 1974 to Melanie and Charles Downs, both whom preceded her in death. She was raised with her twin sisters, Celestine and Charlene. Her mother raised them as a single parent and instilled in them a strong sense of self and independence. During this time Irene and her mom formed a strong bond and would eventually become the best of friends later in life. In Irene's preteen years Melanie met Irene's step-father Bobby Beal, who became a surrogate father for her and her sisters.

In early childhood, Irene was ostracized and experienced bullying from other children. She spent much of her time reading and with imaginary play. Irene was diagnosed with diabetes at a young age, and later had an accident that injured her hip. Her high school years were enjoyable as she gained popularity, confidence and respect. Irene participated in Mock Trial at Northeast High School, which began her hopes and dreams of becoming a courtroom judge. It was during this time that Irene blossomed into the leader we all knew and loved.

Irene enjoyed some years of corporate success while she worked for AT&T in both Lee's Summit and Fairhaven, MA, and later for Encore Receivables in their banking department. Her role as a team manager for these corporations set the stage for her to be a constant encouragement to those around her. In her adult years there were constant battles with blindness, various illnesses, injuries and complications related to her diabetes, which ultimately led to her departure from the corporate world and the start of dialysis treatment.

Always loving to compete, Irene participated in UMKC's Mock Trial team during undergrad and was named All-American by the American Mock Trial Association. After graduation she transitioned to coach, which gave another avenue to teach and encourage her students. She was committed to their growth and always ready to give support.

Irene embodied diversity and inclusion by the way she lived her life and was ready to change the world. In recent times, as a student at UMKC Law school, her lifelong dreams were coming true and she was happier than she had been in years. Hopes for a long-awaited kidney transplant were on the horizon. Sadly, this dream was deferred as God saw fit to answer our prayers in a much greater way. God gave her final rest and eternal peace on Saturday, October 19, as she passed on in moments. She will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Irene was constantly surrounded by the love and support of her family. She loved spending quality time with her family watching TV, going to movies, discussing current events, and of course hosting game nights. She absolutely loved to play bid whist, spades, Skip-Bo and poker. There is now certainly a place at the table in Heaven alongside her mother.

Irene was preceded in death by her sister Lacacia Williams and left behind her siblings, Celestine Bradford, Charlene Downs, Christy Williams, Charles West, and Preston West and loving surrogate mother, Janice West. Nieces and nephews: Charell, Darrell, Julia, Justin, Juniya, Domonick, Ruben, Christian, Christopher, Danielle and Jacobi and greats: Preston, Riley and Jordyn and a host of other relatives and friends.

Celebration of Life for Ms. Downs will be held 1:00 P.M.  Saturday, October 26, 2019, at the University of Missouri--Kansas City Student Union.  Private Disposition.

Thoughtful care and services provided by E. S. Eley & Sons Funeral Chapel, Inc.