Irene Yeargle

Irene (Knight) Yeargle, 75, of Littleton, N.H., passed away unexpectedly on June 20, 2026.

Irene was born on October 18, 1950, in Littleton, N.H., to Mary (Ward) Knight and James S. Knight. She graduated from Littleton High School in 1968 and went on to attend the University of New Hampshire, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Animal Science in 1972.

On May 12, 1973, she married her high school sweetheart, best friend, and the love of her life, Warren. Irene and Warren lived in Allenstown, N.H., for the first 11 years of their marriage before moving back to their hometown of Littleton to raise their two daughters.

For more than 50 years, Irene dedicated her career to the telephone company. In her younger years, she was an active member and President of the Northern New England Brittany Club. She enjoyed breeding Brittany Spaniels and spent many happy days bird hunting alongside her beloved husband, Warren. She also cherished time spent on the waters of Moore Dam, proudly serving as "First Mate" to "Captain Woe."

In her later years, some of Irene's happiest memories were made during annual summer vacations to Old Orchard Beach with her daughters and grandchildren. When at home, she could often be found diligently working on her latest puzzle or playing games on her iPad. She also enjoyed being a social butterfly, spending time with friends and making new friendships at her favorite local restaurant, The Freehouse.

Irene is survived by her daughter, Melissa Buchanan, and her husband, Bruce, of Cumberland, R.I.; her daughter, Amy Nilges, and her partner, Ashley Keon, of Hillsboro, N.H.; her son, Charlie (If you know you know) and her grandchildren, Oliver Buchanan, Addison Buchanan, Jayden Nilges, and Kingston Nilges.

She is also survived by her sisters, Nancy Hussey and her husband, David, of Alton, N.H.; Janet Christensen and her husband, Marty, of Deer River, Minn.; Sally Carver and her husband, Ken, of Hampton, N.H.; and her brother, John Knight, and his wife, Holly, of Berwick, Maine. She also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

Irene was predeceased by her parents, James and Mary Knight; her husband and the love of her life, Warren Yeargle; and her sister and best friend, Carol MacIver.

She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend who welcomed everyone with a big smile, a warm hug, and an invitation to share a conversation and a beverage.

A burial service is planned for August 7, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Glenwood Cemetery, with a Celebration of Life to follow at the Littleton VFW.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Irene's memory to the Littleton High School Scholarship Trust, c/o Guidance Department, Littleton High School, 159 Oak Hill Avenue, Littleton, N.H. 03561. This scholarship is awarded to students pursuing further education, whether through a trade school, a two- or four-year degree program, or vocational training.

Assisting the family with arrangements is Phaneuf Funeral Homes and Crematorium.

To view Irene’s Online Tribute, send condolences to the family, or for more information, visit www.phaneuf.net.