Dr. Minerva Irons Applegate, 72, of Brandon, FL passed away on June 12, 2011. Born March 8, 1939 in Lakewood, New Jersey, she lived in Toms River, NJ until relocating to Florida in 1976. She graduated with honors from the Nursing Program at Columbia University, New York City, NY and obtained her Doctorate from the University of Miami where she was a member of Sigma Theta Tau, a Delta Beta Chapter. Dr. Applegate was also a retired Professor in the Nursing Department at the University of South Florida where she was a published author of one book and numerous articles. She was of the Methodist Faith and loved to garden in her spare time.



She is survived by her companion of 32 years, Harvey L. Tucker; her mother Nancy Webb Irons, 92 of Hilliard, FL; one brother Alfred H. (Lucy) Irons, Jr. of Middleburg, FL and one sister Barbara (Wesley) Varnes of Hilliard, FL; her Nephews Paul Varnes, Fernandina Beach, FL, Richard (Brenda) Varnes, Naples, FL, Kenny Varnes, Hilliard, FL, Alfred H. (Lisa) Irons, III, Denton, MD, Craig (Theresa) Varnes, Jacksonville, FL, Jonathan (Marie) Varnes, Hilliard, FL and Christopher (Allie) Irons, Hilliard, FL; Nieces Debbie (Billy) Hubbard, E. New Market, MD, Minerva Tobat, E. New Market, MD and Nancy (Joe) Hoewischer, Hilliard, FL along with 10 great-nieces, 10 great-nephews and two great-great nephews with one great-great niece. She is predeceased by her father Alfred H. Irons, Sr., niece Tammy Jane Varnes and great-nephew Raymond (R.J.) Tobat, Jr.



Arrangements were entrusted to Serenity Meadows of Riverview, FL. Condolences may be expressed at http://www.serenitymeadows.com.



No Memorial Service will be held at this time.