Vivian Padgett Irwin, 87

Vivian was born August 27, 1936, to Frank and Clara Padgett in the family log cabin at the end of Padgett Road, currently Moon Shadow Road. She was raised there along with six siblings, Betty Long, Geniveve Kenworthy, Hazel Nieuwenhuis Thomson, Butch Padgett, Geri Helm Springer (Lewiston, Idaho) and Archie Padgett.

Vivian went to Bonners Ferry High School with her husband, Bill Irwin. They married in 1956. Bill and Viv’s love was a testament to putting others first and leaning on faith in all circumstances. Viv and Bill loved their hometown and the many people who came into their lives. They enjoyed working on their farm, gardening, huckleberry picking, and driving around the countryside viewing all that God has created for our stewardship. 

They have attended Bonners Ferry Assembly of God Church, now Bridgeway Assembly of God, since 1966. Bill went home to Jesus in 2015 and now Vivian joins him.

Viv stayed busy with numerous activities all of which made life more enjoyable for the people she loved, and she loved big! She will be remembered for her legacy of hospitality and her outstanding baking skills! Her family will forever tell the stories of her gift of baking from pies to perfect gingerbread houses and her amazing butterhorns. We take comfort knowing God has welcomed her home to carry on His good work.

Bill and Viv Irwin built a life together in Bonners Ferry and will continue to be an inspiring example of love and faith for their three children, Cindy (husband Stu) Mitchell, Bill (wife Linda) Irwin and Josie (husband Dan) Johnston, along with three grandchildren, Betsy (husband Doug) Schreiner, Chrissy (husband Nathaniel) Wilson, and Tyler (wife Sabrina) Mitchell. Viv was able to joyfully meet her first great-grandson, Forest Wilson, and shower him with generations of love. 

May we “be good to one another,” as Viv always instructed. We love you and will see you again!