Staff Report
Irene Annette Nixon, 88, passed away peacefully on July 29, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.
Born in Kansas City, Kansas, Irene was the eldest of four daughters of Clarence and Christine Hollingsworth. She spent her childhood in rural Fort Scott and Eureka, Kansas, where she helped care for the family's cows, pigs, and chickens—a responsibility she embraced with pride. Active in 4-H and a member of the school band, she played the baritone saxophone with enthusiasm.
Irene earned a B.S. in Home Economics and Nursing from Kansas State University and completed her registered nurse accreditation at the University of Kansas Medical Center. She later pursued a Master’s degree in Psychology from Texas A&I University in Kingsville (now Texas A&M University–Kingsville).
Following her nursing studies, Irene set off on a solo journey through Europe, visiting 17 countries before returning to the U.S. to begin a distinguished career in healthcare. She married the love of her life, Donald Nixon, and over the next 42 years Irene served in a variety of nursing roles—psychiatric care, doctors’ offices, home health, and most notably, as a beloved school nurse in Ricardo, Texas which spanned twenty five years.
Later, as a licensed professional counselor, she taught college night courses on the Naval Air Stations in Kingsville and Corpus Christi. Known for her leadership and drive, Irene served as president of several organizations, including the Association of Texas Professional Educators (ATPE).
Irene was a force of nature—strong, independent, and always ready to lead—but it was her warm, extroverted, and effervescent personality that left a lasting impression. She never met a stranger and was quick to offer friendship, guidance, and support to anyone in need. In her free time, she enjoyed volunteering, singing, sewing, reading, gardening, traveling, and helping others.
She had a heart for hospitality, especially during the holidays. Each Thanksgiving, she opened her home to Donald’s international students and visiting professors, ensuring no one spent the holiday alone. These gatherings brought together traditional dishes alongside a rich variety of global cuisines, creating unforgettable memories for all.
Above all, Irene cherished her role as “Nana” to her three grandchildren—Marissa Ewing, Brian Konde, and Jake Nix—and her great-grandson, Weston Ewing. Her grandchildren fondly remember playing Mexican Train, sleepovers, giant breakfasts, swims at the Kyle pool, warm hugs, and what they lovingly called the “best” peanut butter sandwiches.
Irene’s legacy of compassion, leadership, and boundless energy lives on through her family and all those she touched with her kindness and spirit. Her celebration of life will be held at Kyle UMC on August the 9th at 3:00pm with a reception afterwards in the family life center. Attendees are encouraged to wear blue, Irene's favorite color.
