Iris was born April 17, 1934 to the late Walter and Addell (Smith) Spann in Bolton North Carolina.  She was married in 1951 to her husband Albert Thomas who preceded her in death.  Six children were born from this union; Linda, Michael, James, Adele, Anthony and Andre.

Iris attended Julliard School of Arts, majoring in opera singing. She went on to graduate with a bachelor's degree in sociology from Adelphi University. Iris devoted her career to working with others in corrections as a probation officer and social worker serving unwed mothers at Job Corp in Atlanta, GA.

Endearingly known as Mama "T", she was a devoted Jehovah's Witness who was baptized on July 1, 1989. She was frequently active in the ministry and enjoyed spreading the "Good News" of God's Kingdom. In her spare time, Iris enjoyed reading her Bible, fine dining at exclusive restaurants, and spending quality time with her family and friends.

Iris is survived by her cherished daughter, Linda Thomas, her siblings; Inez Ford (Butch), Walter Spann (Edna), Larnice Young, Ruth Ford (Medell); grandchildren; Sharron Thomas, Shavon Thomas, Shawn Thomas, Deshanta Thomas, Tyeshia Miller (Travis), Michael Thomas Jr., William Wyatt Jr., Damien Wyatt (Tameka), and Niekia Thomas. Great-grandchildren; Marquis, Marlon, Brittany, Felicia, Leon, Tanasia, Tamaya, Tianna, Jordan, Michael, James, Anthony, Andre, and daughter Adele Thomas.  Special friends; Terrence Goodman, Stacey Hill, Mark Copeland and a host of loving friends.