Irene L. Hobbs, age 87, of Manhattan, passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 16, 2023 at Sunny Hill Nursing Home, Joliet. Survived by her nieces and nephews Michael (Stacie) Hobbs, David (Tammy) Hobbs and Michelle (Danny) Rantanen and numerous great nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by her parents William and Lilly (nee Batson) Hobbs, her brothers Harry Hobbs, Robert (Carol) Hobbs, a brother in infancy Wesley Hobbs, and her nephew Don Hobbs. Irene was part of the first graduating class of Lincoln-Way Central High School. Irene worked for the Herald News and had her own rural route. She enjoyed baking, especially pies for the church potlucks, and gardening. Irene will be remembered for her fierce independence and zest for life. Visitation for Irene will be on Saturday, March 25, 2023 from 10:00a.m. until 12:00 noon. Funeral service will immediately follow at 12:00 Noon. All services will be at the funeral home. Interment will immediately follow at Maplewood Cemetery, New Lenox. Arrangements entrusted to Forsythe Gould Funeral Home, 507 S. State St., Manhattan, IL, 60442, 815-478-3321, www.forsythegouldfh.com.