Irma Leone Wellman Gadson departed this earthly life on March 18, 2023. Born February 8, 1924, she was the daughter of the late James Webster Wellman, Sr. and Emma L. Polk Wellman. Irma was born and raised in Winston-Salem, NC, and was one of four children.

Irma graduated from Atkins High School in Winston-Salem in 1940. Upon graduation from Winston-Salem Teachers College, she began a long career in the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County School System. During her long tenure, Irma was the Assistant Superintendent of Schools. Irma retired from teaching in 1981, after nearly 35 years in education.

Irma married the late Charles William Gadson on June 7, 1952 at Saint Benedict the Moor Catholic Church in Winston-Salem. They were married 55 years before his passing in 2007. Together, they spent many years entertaining family and friends, and were active members of the American Bridge Association. Irma enjoyed life and embraced it with incredible enthusiasm. Irma was a dedicated member of St. Benedict the Moor Catholic Church. She was an avid pianist and organist and dedicated over forty years of musical service to Saint Benedict the Moor. She was active in St. Monica's Guild and many community organizations. Irma was a lifelong member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and the Winston-Salem Duplicate Bridge Club.

Left to cherish memories of Irma Wellmon Gadson are her children adopted in love including, Dr. Monica Lett, Sister Larretta Rivera-Williams, Mr. David Hinton (wife, Natalie), Dr. Jereme P. Butler (husband, Puma), and Dr. Jerome M. Butler, Jr. (wife, Kemery); and a host of family and friends including the loving family of her late husband, Charles Gadson.

There will be no public viewing.

Graveside services will be held at 10:00am Saturday, April 1, 2023 in Evergreen Cemetery.