Irene Koto Swann's Obituary
Irene Koto Swann departed this life on Sunday, January 29th, 2023, at the age of 88. Irene Koto was born May 4th, 1934, in Telemai, Lofa County, To Kerkula Lungalunga Jaimah and Lorpu Togba Gaya.
lrene was predeceased by her parents; Kerkula Lungalunga and Lorpu Jaimah. Siblings; Flomo Togba Jaimah, Larwua Fromayan, Yarkpawolo Jaimah, and her late husband William Henry Swann. She is survived by her daughter Gloria, her sisters Krubah Briggs, Nancy Sumo, and brother Alford Jaimah. Grandchildren; Nicholas Allen and Nicole Williams. Great grandchildren: Stephon, Skylar, Faith, Amil, and other numerous relatives and loved ones.
Irene completed her primary education at Zorzor Lutheran School and secondary education LTI (Lutheran Training Institute) in Salayea, Lofa County. Irene attended the University of Liberia in Monrovia and graduated with honor in 1956. She received a scholarship that landed her in Denver, Colorado to attend the University of Colorado. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing, at the University of Colorado 1959.
Irene met her late husband, William Henry Swann, the love of her life in 1956. Through that union they received their 1st and only child, Gloria Irene Swann. William H. Swann was in the US Navy and was transferred to Alameda Navy Base, Alameda, CA.
They purchased their 1st home in Oakland, CA and in 1967, they relocated to Hayward, California. Bill and Irene's door was always open for family and friends. Many parties were held at their residence on 2936 Pickford Way, in Hayward.
In 1959 Irene started her nursing career with Alameda County Public Health in Oakland, off Broadway in Jack London Square. She later relocated to Alameda County Public Health Hayward office of Winton Ave. She later went on to get her Master of Science degree in Public Health Administration, from the University of Phoenix. Irene continued her public service as a nurse for 35 years and finally retired in 1996.
Irene was very family-oriented and had a very strong faith in God. For several years she attended Bethlehem Lutheran Church. Her faith and kind heart led her to do the very best she could for her family and friends. She was known as one of the most influential, highly educated and most generous people in the community. One of Irene's accomplished missions was to help her family in her homeland of Liberia. lrene was successful in sponsoring over 12 family members, and many other friends to come to America for a better opportunity and education.
Irene loved cultural Liberian traditional dance and food, and stories. She also loved to sing, read, garden, shop, and spend time with her family.
What’s your fondest memory of Irene?
What’s a lesson you learned from Irene?
Share a story where Irene's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Irene you’ll never forget.
How did Irene make you smile?