Druie B. Irvin

Druie Bell Irvin of Downingtown, PA, passed away on November 14, 2020, at St. Martha Manor, Downingtown. He was 100 years old.

Born in Cerulean Springs, Kentucky a son of the late Clarence Horton and Vinnie Irvin. He was the husband of Alice Eva (Cole) Irvin with whom he shared 74 years of marriage.

Druie had an entrepreneurial spirit at an early age. He worked on a farm and bought his own horse and buggy at 12 years old.

As a United States Army veteran, Druie served from 1942 to 1947 during World War II until he was honorably discharged.  He was the first black person to become an army recruiter and the first black to drive his own army truck.

After returning to civilian life, he worked as a Forman at Lukens Steel Company (Bethlehem Steel) for 23 years. He also was the owner of his own business, Druie & Son's Trash Company, for 43 years.

Druie was a member of the Church of Christ in Ercildoun, PA. He enjoyed playing the harmonica, listening to the bible on audio, and listening to country and western music.

Druie is survived by his wife Alice Eva Irvin; son, Clifford Martin; daughter Lavina Rivers; grandchildren: John Irvin, Shakira Garlock, Diane Rivers; 24 great-grandchildren, 6 great-great-grandchildren; God-daughter, Alice Brazzle Turner; daughter-in-law, Shirley Thomas and many other relatives.

He was preceded in death by two sons, Albert Thomas, Sam Irvin and a daughter; Jeanette McGibboney.

A walk-thru public viewing will be held from 10 AM to 10:45 AM, on Thursday, November 19, 2020, at Wright Funeral & Cremation Services, Inc., 725 Merchant Street, Coatesville, PA.  Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the funeral service will be held privately with limited seating for the immediate family only. The service can be viewed beginning at 10:30 AM on Zoom using the link below.  Military honors will be held at Church of Christ Cemetery East Fallowfield, PA.

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