Irene James has been a Cincinnati Reds fan her entire life. That is quite an accomplishment as Irene is 98-years-old. She has followed and supported the Reds through the championship years and the 100 loss years as well and has been content in just listening to them on the radio.

Irene, who is currently a resident of Morris Nursing Home in Bethel, was recently surprised with what any fan would want.

On Monday, Sept. 13, she was visited by Mr. Red, the long-time mascot of the Cincinnati Reds and members of the teams’ public relations department.

Along with the visit Irene received a Reds uniform jersey, an official Reds cap, bobble heads of Joey Votto, Scott Roland, and a Reds Gnome. She also received a pennant to hang on her wall. All residents and staff received a Reds ball cap as well.

Along with the afternoon celebration, a poem about her was read for all to hear and refreshments served to all in attendance. However, the icing on the cake was later that night when in the fourth inning of the game Marty Brennaman spoke about Irene on the radio and her long-time as a true blue Reds fan.

All this wouldn’t have come about if not for the folks at Grace Hospice in Cincinnati, who overheard her talking about her favorite topic and contacted the very caring folks from the Cincinnati Reds. This was truly a Red letter day for Irene James and all the other fans that were there.