Lois Irene Joplin, 94, of Benton, went to be with the Lord, at 4:46 p.m., on Friday, February 5, 2021, at Fifth Season Assisted Living in Benton, surrounded by her family.

She was born on February 9, 1926, to Rev. Everett and Elsie (Shoemaker) Kerce in High Springs, FL. On July 13, 1947, she married the Rev. Walter D. Joplin and he preceded her in death.

Irene was an active member of New Life Church of God in Benton.  She previously served alongside her husband for 29 years as pastor of the Park Avenue Church of God, Herrin, IL.  She volunteered for many years as a pianist at four senior care facilities in the community. She was also a well-loved member of Curves on the square.

Irene is survived by her loving sons, Rod (Patricia) Joplin of Benton and Tim Joplin of Cape Girardeau, MO; two grandchildren, Jeremy Joplin and Lindsey (Seth) Bumpus and three great-grandsons, Landon Bumpus, Kohen Bumpus and Brogan Bumpus.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Rev. E. O. and Elsie Mae Kerce, her husband, the Rev. Walter D. Joplin, two sisters, Lavera Humphries and Betty Roberts and one brother, Wallace Odin Kerce.

Services have been entrusted to Pate Funeral Home, 301 S. Main St., Benton, IL.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, February 9, 2021, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at New Life of Church of God, 707 N. DuQuoin St. in Benton.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, February 9, 2021, 6:30 p.m. at the New Life Church of God in Benton, with the Rev. A. Ted Anderson and the Rev. Mark Joplin, officiating.

Graveside services will take place on Wednesday, February 10, 2021 at 11:30 a.m. at the Masonic and Odd Fellows Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to New Life Church of God and will be accepted at the church.

Online condolences can be given at www.patefh.com .