Mary Sue Ireland

Mary Sue Ireland, a brilliant chemist, devoted poodle enthusiast, and avid golfer, passed away on December 22, 2024, at the age of 93. She left this world as she lived in it: surrounded by love, laughter, and a beloved furry companion.

Born in 1931 in Graham, North Carolina, her family soon moved to their ancestral farm in Elon. Here Sue had spirited country adventures with her five siblings: riding horses, raising guinea hens and milking cows. Sue graduated from Elon University with majors in Chemistry and Spanish. After graduation, she taught Chemistry, Spanish, and general science. With her sharp mind and love for chemistry, she entered the field of research. She spent the majority of her career working at The Lorillard Company where her groundbreaking work led to a patent in an era when few women graced the halls of science. When she wasn’t working hard at the job she cherished, Sue was on the golf course often with a group of fierce lady golfers. She competed in countless tournaments, and led her male relatives on many golfing vacations near her family’s home at Oak Island. Her greatest joy, however, was the companionship of her beloved poodles. From the moment she adopted her first rambunctious pup, Sue’s home was never without the joyful chaos of a poodle or two. In retirement Sue was very active in the Kiwanis Club of Greensboro.

Sue was preceded in death by her parents Mattie Mae Gibson Ireland and Leonard Arnot Ireland, Sr., her siblings Elouise Gourley, Dot Fishel, Betty Hancock, James Ireland and Leonard Arnot Ireland. She is survived by many nieces and nephews, countless friends and colleagues, and a devoted poodle named Diva.

A graveside service will be held at 2:00 PM, Saturday, January 4, 2025 at Alamance Memorial Park, Burlington, NC.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the HorsePower, Victory Junction, or Elon University.