Irene Whitlock served as president from 1991-1995. During that time, their presidency had opportunities to serve alongside the brethren in building up the newly formed stake. One such event was in 1993, when Elder Packer, Elder Scott and Elder Kofford came for training meetings. Irene's husband, Jerry Whitlock, recalled, "That time was a great one for Irene and me. She let me attend all the quarterly meetings (to set up the tables and to do the dishes and cleanup while the meeting was being held). I received a special apron from the Relief Society when she was released and was named an honorary member of the Relief Society."
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| L-R: Elder Kofford, Elder Scott, Donna Schott, Kay Paulson, Elder Packer, Irene Whitlock, Judy Stephenson - 1993 |
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| L-R: Irene Whitlock, Judy Stephenson, Kay Paulson, Donna Schott, Elder Scott - 1993 |
Women's Conferences and other Stake Relief Society meetings were held to provide opportunities to strengthen and encourage the sisters of the stake. Irene and her presidency always had the best interest of the sisters in mind as they organized stake meetings and activities. Their presidency reached out to the wards to understand the needs of the sisters and to build a united sisterhood.
Irene Whitlock passed away at the age of 82 on December 19, 2014. Throughout her life, she set a personal example of faith and service. She served with graciousness and humility - always with her mind and heart focused on seeking the Spirit to discern how best to teach and lead. She served without hesitation and gave her best effort to every assignment. Her love of the Lord was always evident as she spoke. Her testimony of the importance of the temple was demonstrated clearly as she served in the Washington DC Temple for 30 years, first as a volunteer answering the telephone and then later as an ordinance worker.
Even if we didn't know these women personally and maybe didn't even live in the Columbia Maryland Stake during their time of service, we have been blessed by their efforts. They laid a foundation of righteous choices, faith & devotion in our Savior and selfless service.
- Lorie Pierce
**Note - a correction has been made since the original publication of this post. The visit of Sister Chieko N. Okazaki originally referenced did not occur during Sister Whitlock's time as president. It was not until 2002 that she visited and it will be addressed in a later history post.
