Iris (Spears) Pope

Mrs. Iris Pope, affectionately known as Mrs. Iris to those who held her dear, passed away peacefully on May 1, 2025, at the blessed age of 95, in Covington, Georgia. Born on July 10, 1929, in Atlanta, she grew up in the Lakewood Heights community. 

Mrs. Iris was the cherished daughter of the late Tom and Ruby Spears, and she was preceded in passing by her loving son Ken Pope, her husband Joe Pope Jr., and her husband Ralph Yancey. Her memory will be tenderly remembered by her sons and daughters-in-law, Joe (Jeanette), Mike (Joyce), and Russell (Jeanie) Pope. Mrs. Iris was the proud and nurturing matriarch to 12 grandchildren and 24 great-grandchildren, each of whom brought immense joy to her life. The family circle extended to numerous nieces, nephews, other family members, and many close friends, all of whom felt the warmth of her love and kindness. Along with her loving family she will be remembered by her boyfriend R. C. Tarleton

A graduate of Fulton High School, Mrs. Iris dedicated her life to her family, becoming a devoted housewife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, as well as a faithful Christian and friend to many. Her life was a testament to love, kindness, and faith, which were the cornerstones upon which she built her legacy.

Mrs. Iris found her greatest pleasure in the embrace of her family and the fellowship of her church community. Her life was a beautiful reflection of her heart as were her words as she often wrote beautiful and meaningful poetry for those she loved dearly. Generous and vibrant, she will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her. She was a prolific writer of poetry for whom she loved. 

Funeral services for Mrs. Pope will be held at 2 o’clock Thursday, May 8, 2025 at Stewart Community Church with Reverend Jeff Clegg and Reverend Ron Swann officiating.  Interment will be held at 11 o’clock Friday, May 9, 2025 at Westview Cemetery in Atlanta.  The family will receive friends at the church from 12:00 PM until 2:00 PM on Thursday prior to the funeral service.  J.C. Harwell and Son Funeral Home has been entrusted with these arrangements.

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