Irene K Decker

Irene Koster Decker, a beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on March 21, 2026, in Catonsville, Maryland. She was 86 years old.

Born in New York, Irene was the only child of William Henry and Margaret Koster, she was raised with love by her parents.

Irene lived a full and vibrant life in Maryland, where she raised her three children with a distinctive blend of warmth, humor, and a no-nonsense spirit. She is survived by her children: Maryanne Davis of Catonsville, Maryland; Elizabeth Mahanes of Virginia Beach, Virginia; and Mark Koster of Florida. She was the proud "Gram" to five grandchildren: Mark Davis, Morgan Davis, Meg Rakes, Alex Koster, and Katie Koster; and three great-grandchildren: Adelle Bukszar, Jillian Bukszar, and Malcolm Puls Davis, who will forever remember her infectious energy, her legendary board game victories (where she proudly declared herself in her best New York accent, "the winna, and still champion"), and her generous offerings of chocolate, ice cream, Peanut M&M’s, Andes candies, or, in a pinch, Nestlé Toll House chips.

A devoted and legendary teacher, Irene began her teaching career at Our Lady of Victory, later retiring from St. Mark Elementary School in Catonsville, where she taught first and second grade for more than 25 years. Every student who entered her classroom was, by her reliable account, "very bright."

Above all, Irene was the best mom, grandmother, and great-grandmother her family could have asked for. Her love was fierce, funny, and unwavering. She leaves behind a legacy of warmth, wit, and countless hearts she touched as "Gram."

We want to thank her loving caretaker and friend, Zerita Jackson Warren, who continued caring for Mom even after she moved to skilled nursing.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, March 27, 2026, at 11 a.m. at St. Mark Catholic Church, 30 Melvin Avenue, Catonsville, MD 21228.

In lieu of flowers, consider a quiet moment of laughter remembering her sayings and escapades, or perhaps a small donation in her name to Believe In Tomorrow Children’s Foundation.

Rest easy, Gram. You’ve earned it.