Irene "Robbie" Stirling Stickell

Irene “Robbie” Stirling Stickell lost her valiant battle with cancer on Dec 12, 2024. Born in Edinburgh, Scotland, to Margaret and James Robbie on June 11, 1937, she grew up in Selkirk, Scotland then became a registered nurse and certified midwife. She later became the Community Relations Advisor at Royal Air Force Base Lakenheath, England, where she met and married Dean Stickell, a fighter pilot at the base.

Robbie took joy and pride in her role as an incredible mother and as the quintessential officer’s wife. While dedicated to raising her children, she supported Dean throughout his career, which took them to four continents. Robbie was the glue that allowed them to enjoy the adventure together as an incredibly close-knit family. She was involved with Squadron Wives and Officers Wives Clubs at every assignment and was truly selfless in her devotion and leadership to other Air Force spouses. Similarly, her devotion and support of Dean throughout his career was unrivaled, especially in assignments as the Wing Commander at Misawa Air Base, Japan, and as the Defense Attache in Canberra, Australia. Robbie was by Dean's side, representing the United States, at the many social events and official functions, often using her amazing cooking skills to beautifully host distinguished visitors. Her other efforts ranged from fundraising for scholarships and school sports teams to restructuring and running the base Thrift Shop to tutoring children with disabilities. There was one unfailing theme throughout: Robbie always placed the needs of others in front of her own.

Robbie and Dean retired from the Air Force and settled in Frederick, MD, in 1992. Robbie was a member of the Taskers Chance Garden Club and Friends of Baker Park, and dedicated tremendous time and energy to supporting her children and grandchildren. Robbie is survived by her husband, Dean; daughters, Carolyn and Jil; son-in-law, Brendan; two adoring grandchildren, Grey and Jett; brother, Douglas; and many other nieces, nephews, and family members.

Robbie will be dearly missed by all her family and friends.

A Celebration of Robbie's Life will be held on Friday, January 31, 2025, at Frederick Church of the Brethren, 201 Fairview Avenue, Frederick, MD 21701. Reception to follow at Dutch's Daughter Restaurant, 581 Himes Ave., Frederick, MD 21703

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly suggests a donation to the Frederick Rescue Mission (therescuemission.org) or the Friends of Baker Park General Fund (friendsofbakerpark.org). Memorial services will be held in January. Details will be forthcoming. Online condolences may be left at www.keeneybasford.com