Emmett Richard Irvine, 71, of Lexington, died Tuesday, December 15, 2009 in Envoy of Staunton Nursing Home.

Born April 2, 1938, he was a son of the late Ellis Davidson Irvine and Nellie Millor Vanness Irvine.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers and a sister-in-law, E. Clinton Irvine and Thomas D. Irvine and wife, Frances.

Mr. Irvine was a member of New Monmouth Presbyterian Church.

He loved to hunt, fish and raise a garden large enough to feed all his neighbors.

Surviving are his wife, Helen Plott Irvine; a daughter, Jennifer Irvine Slusser and husband, Scott of Staunton; one granddaughter, Morgan Grace Slusser; one sister, Pearl Thomas and husband, Clarence "Peanut" of Lexington; three brothers, Carl Irvine and wife, Mary of Smithfield, Roscoe Irvine and wife, Sarah of Staunton, and David Irvine of Newport News.

Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, December 18, 2009 at the New Monmouth Presbyterian Cemetery with military rites, followed by a memorial service in the New Monmouth Presbyterian Church with Rev. Martin Stokes, Jr. officiating.

The family will receive friends at the residence at any time.

Arrangements are being handled by the Harrison Funeral Home & Crematory, Lexington, VA.