A Life of Service, Leadership and Love
Fort Lauderdale is grieving the loss of one of its most treasured leaders and faithful servants. Dr. Irma Hunter Wesley, a devoted servant of God, loving matriarch, and tireless community leader, passed away this week at the age of 86, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to shape lives for generations to come.
Born on February 25, 1939, in Apalachicola, Florida, to James Charles and Caroline Hawkins Hunter, Dr. Wesley was the eldest of six children. She grew into a woman whose faith, vision, and leadership would profoundly influence education, ministry, and community life in Broward County.
She was the beloved wife of the late Sylvester G. Wesley, Sr., and together they raised six children, each one earning a college degree, a living testimony to the value of education instilled in their home.
A Visionary Educator
Dr. Wesley’s profound commitment to learning was evident throughout her life. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Nova Southeastern University, a certification in Early Childhood from Florida Atlantic University, and a master’s degree from Florida International University. Later, she was honored with a Doctor of Religion degree from Clarity International Christian University.
As the former Executive Director of the Irma Hunter Wesley Fort Lauderdale Child Development Center, she made an indelible impact for over 50 years. Her center went far beyond traditional childcare—it was a sanctuary of character development and self-worth for children as young as six weeks old. Guided by her philosophy of “tender loving care,” she insisted that every child leave her center believing they could do anything.
Her vision was so complete that she worked with architects to design the building so her office sat at its heart, allowing her to look into every classroom and stay close to the work she cherished. Many of her staff served loyally for decades, a reflection of the respect and love she inspired.
A Servant Leader in Faith
A faithful member of the Church of God in Christ (COGIC), Dr. Wesley’s ministry touched countless lives inside and outside church walls. She faithfully taught Sunday School, Bible study, and youth programs, including Young People Willing Worker (YPWW), Sunshine Band, and Purity Class.
She also served the church in higher leadership as a licensed Evangelist Missionary, a District Missionary for 20 years, and a National Executive Hospitality worker for more than 35 years.
Her outreach ministry, Irma’s Needful Things, became an extension of her faith in action. Through it, she fed, clothed, and ministered to the homeless, always sharing the love of Christ. Her life was guided by her personal motto: “If I can help somebody along the way, my living will not be in vain.”
Honors and Recognition
For her extraordinary contributions, Dr. Wesley received numerous awards, including:
- The 2004 Jim Moran Foundation Award for Lifetime Achievement
- The 2000 JM Family African American Achiever Award
She also served as a Board Member for the Early Learning Coalition of Broward County, further cementing her legacy as a trailblazer in early care and education.
A Legacy That Lives On
Friends and colleagues remember Dr. Wesley as a trailblazer, a mentor, and a role model whose leadership was defined by service, faith, and compassion. Her influence extended far beyond titles—she was a trusted advisor, a nurturer of families, and a champion for equity and education.
Her passing leaves a void in the community, but her legacy lives on in the countless children who gained confidence under her care, the families she mentored, and the faithfulness she inspired.
Official Arrangements
Wake: Friday, September 26, 2025 | 5PM – 8PM at Lighthouse Worship Center
2201 NW 24th Street Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311
Celebration of Life: Saturday, September 27, 2025 | 10:00AM at Lighthouse Worship Center
2201 NW 24th Street Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311
Requested Attire: Ladies: All White with Gold Accessories. Men: Black Suit, White Shirt
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that monetary donations be sent via Zelle to 954-646-0541 or CashApp $TWPILE.
The Westside Gazette joins the community in honoring the remarkable life of Dr. Irma Hunter Wesley—a woman of faith, courage, and vision who gave so much of herself so others could soar.
