Grace Irene Delph, 1929-2021

Grace Irene Delph, age 92, passed away Monday November 22, 2021 at her residence in Bartow.

Born August 12, 1929 in Vicco, KY to Samp and Naomi Cornett, then grew up in Hazard, KY. Irene graduated from Western Kentucky University with a degree in education. She married her college sweetheart, Bill, and they moved to Bartow in 1952. She and Bill began their professional careers as teachers. She quickly transitioned to a full time loving mother, raising five children.

One of her greatest passions was cooking for her family, especially Sunday afternoon meals and holidays. Holidays were important to her as she carried on traditions to her grandchildren. Her love for her children, seven grandchildren and seven great grandchildren was evident as she would share stories about them every chance she had.

Her children and grandchildren's sports teams were her favorite teams, along with the Kentucky wildcats and lastly any good looking NFL quarterback.

She is preceded in death by her husband Bill of 61 years, and her sister Wanda C. Sollis. She is survived by a loving family including a daughter: Lisa Delph of Bartow; four sons: Tim Delph (Patty) of Bartow, Rev. Dr. David Delph (Rebecca) of Plant City; Steve Delph (Connie) of Lakeland, Ricky Delph (JoAnn) of Eustis; 7 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren, a niece Missy Tally of Sebastian and countless cousins.

A special thank you to all of the caregivers, especially to her daughter Lisa and niece Missy. The family will hold a private service with her son Rev. Dr. David Delph officiating. Condolences may be sent to the family at http://www.whiddenmcleanfuneralhome.com