Irma Lois Gentry Lance

Irma Lois Gentry Lance was a beloved mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, aunt and mother in law. Irma Lois passed away peacefully at home on January 31, 2026.

Irma Lois was born on November 1, 1936 in Candler, NC to Albert and Louise Green Gentry. She grew up on the family farm with her brother and sister, David and Mary. Irma Lois was a graduate of Candler High School.

Irma Lois was known for her boundless energy whether in an office, garden, or as a volunteer at Fletcher First Baptist Church. She could rescue fading flowers and wilted greenery to restore their natural beauty, with a little water and coaxing. Her homemade cookies and candies were greatly enjoyed by her family, and even her fruitcake was wonderful!

Irma Lois went to Fletcher First Baptist Church. In later years, she enjoyed the regular and special services on her laptop. She was a fast learner on her device and thereby maintained a deep connection to her church community.

Surviving family members included her children Diane Higgins (William) of Charlotte, NC, Darlene Soyars of Fletcher, NC, Lewis Lance (Christa), of Fletcher, NC and Daryl Lance of Salisbury, NC; her brother David Gentry of Fletcher, NC and sister Mary Ruth Norton of Hendersonville, NC.

Irma Lois was blessed with ten grandchildren and one great grandchild. Her nieces and nephews, cousins and family will especially miss her at holiday gatherings where all had a place at the table. She counted Angela Lance as a special blessing. Jerry and Debbie Angel were truly wonderful to Irma Lois, and she was deeply grateful for their friendship.

Irma Lois’ family is forever grateful to the Four Seasons Hospice Care team for their ongoing palliative and hospice care.

Memorial gifts may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital (stjude.org) or the Four Seasons Foundation (fourseasonsfdn.org) in lieu of flowers.

Services will be at Fletcher First Baptist Church on Saturday, February 7, 2026 with visitation at 11 A.M. and the Funeral Service at 12 Noon. Burial will immediately follow the funeral at Pisgah View Memorial Park in Candler.

Groce Funeral Home’s Lake Julian team is assisting the family.