Irene Dugger, a beloved and remarkable woman, passed away on January 22, 2024, in her home in Mount Pleasant, Tennessee. Born on September 30, 1936, in Lawrence County, Tennessee, she was the daughter of the late Carl and Sylvia Rawdon. Irene stood as the matriarch of her family, being the middle of five sisters.
In her early years, Irene excelled in sports, particularly in basketball for Summertown. However, her selflessness led her to drop out to wait tables, ensuring her younger sisters could receive a better education. Undeterred by obstacles, she later earned her GED and pursued higher education at Columbia State, where she graduated Magna Cum Laude in Business in 1983.
A woman of strength, love, and godliness, Irene married Jimmy Dugger, and together they shared a life for an impressive 55 years and a daughter they cherished. Irene’s commitment to her community extended to her involvement in various boards and committees, including the Maury County Democratic Council. She co-founded the Mount Pleasant Museum, serving as Vice President and President over 32 years and as the museum manager until the challenges brought about by Covid.
Irene’s dedication also extended to her 39-year tenure at the Maury County Sessions court as Chief Deputy, earning her the affectionate nickname “The Governor” from Judge Ed Workman. Her impact reached far and wide as she assisted numerous individuals during her time at the courthouse.
In her leisure, Irene compiled four history books “Mt. Pleasant and its neighbors”, showcasing her passion for preserving local history. She found joy in reading Agatha Christie novels, teaching herself to speed read, and mastering the art of driving a straight shift. She loved sports a fan Of Tennessee Volunteers especially Tennessee volunteer womens softball team and Florida State University football She loved watching Nascar her favorite racers Richard Petty, Coo Coo and Sterlin Marlin. She loved watching the Tennessee vs Alabama game with her grandson Tyler. family was at the center of her world, and she cherished spending time with her daughter, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
Her love for the water drew her to spend serene moments by the river, reflecting her appreciation for life’s simple pleasures like her tulips. Irene Dugger was a true friend to all who knew her, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, strength, and unwavering love. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and the community she served so faithfully.
She is survived by her daughter Sheri Dugger Hardison, Granddaughter DeAnna. Granddaughter in-law Desiree Foster, great-grandchildren Aubrey, Finley, Jace Ray, McKinley Rae, and Baby Morton. Sisters Annie Lou Spears of Cornersville and Joyce Cardwell of Summertown. Sister n law Barbara Baker of Hohenwald, Geraldine Dugger and Wilma Dugger of Mt Pleasant, brother n law Charlie (Marion)Dugger of Hohenwald and John (Linda) Dugger of Mt. Pleasant and many neices and nephews. Special family Becky Glass, Mary Beth Barnett, Cody Sims, Layla and Hudson Sims, Ben Sellers, and Sissy Bradford.
Preceeded in death by parents and Husband Jimmy, grandsonTyler Alexander Hardison, Son in-law Billy Ray Hardison Jr, Sisters Juanita Davis and Mary Tanner, brother in law Chuck Tanner, brother n laws Lee Dugger, Rayburn Dugger, Richard Dugger, and Ronnie Baker, sister n law Eizabeth Dugger, Willodean Dugger, nephew Jeffery Dean Kelsey.
Pallbearers Cody Sims, Deon Hardison, Charlie Jay Dugger, John Dugger, Conley Parson, Drew Parson, and Taylor Odom.
A service for Irene will be held on Tuesday, January 30, 2024 at 1:00 PM at Williams Funeral Home in Mount Pleasant, Tennessee. The family will receive friends on Tuesday, January 30, 2024 from 11:00 AM to the start of the service at Williams Funeral Home in Mount Pleasant, Tennessee. Irene will be laid to rest at Polk Memorial Gardens.
