Irby Mandrell passed away in March of 2009. He was an extraordinary man. It has been said a man’s success is measured by what he left behind. There are not many people today that have not heard of the Mandrell Sisters, Irby’s girls. That in itself is a huge measure of success. I think you have to understand his character to understand who he truly was.
from Irlene Mandrell
It means more to me than words can really say to be honoring our Father through shooting sports. Although Mom and Dad gave us the love of music, they also taught us to love our Country and God.
Daddy fought in WWII and served as a Police Man in Corpus Christi Texas where Louise and I were born.
It’s no wonder that he believed so strongly in the 2nd Amendment. He said that was not only our right but responsibility to defend ourselves and our family. For this I will always be grateful. I Love You Daddy!
from Barbara Mandrell
My first little girl memories of Daddy are precious to me. I remember Daddy and Mother singing and playing Gospel and Country music in our home, and seeing my Daddy looking so handsome and brave dressed in his police uniform, when he’d go to work.
Daddy was my mentor, guide, example and manager for more than 38 years of my career.
Irby Mandrell achieved great things in the world of entertainment, and it brings me enormous pride to have him honored this way.
from Louise Mandrell
My fondest childhood memory of my Dad was when I was four years old shopping with my family when I overheard my dad whisper to my mom, “I want to get these red velvet dresses for the girls”. I was so excited I knew I would look like a princess. Then I heard Mom saying in a low voice thinking no one could hear. “Irby we can’t afford them”. I didn’t see much of Daddy for the next several weeks, he was working three jobs, but he was home Christmas morning when we opened, from Santa, the red velvet dresses.
When I saw my Daddy’s smile I knew that my Dad would do whatever it took to not only meet my needs but my hearts desire. Every Christmas when my daughter, Nicole, was growing up I would dress her in a red velvet dress to impress my Dad.
Everyone who knew Irby Mandrell described him as a hardworking man with integrity who took great joy in helping others. Like most girls I saw Daddy as my hero but this little girl never grew up. My hero is greatly missed and this last Christmas was our first Christmas without him. Keeping the tradition alive I put my little dog, Sally Sue, in a red velvet dress. I know that would have made Daddy laugh!
