It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Iris Jean Avery Rawlings, who left us on April 5th 2025 at the age of 79. She was a beloved wife, mother, sister, grandmother, aunt, and friend, and her presence will be greatly missed by all who knew her.
Born on August 13th 1945 in Savannah, Georgia, Iris was the child of Rex and Lois Avery. She graduated from Fort Worth Polytechnic High School in 1963 and married Gerald Rawlings on August 25th, 1963. They had three wonderful kids and three grandchildren. After Gerald's passing in 2006, Iris moved into Mirabella Assisted Living community in Fort Worth and made many friends over her years there. Throughout her life, Iris was known as a free spirit who could always find fun and laughter in any situation.
Iris is survived with deep sorrow by her daughter Jerri Ellis (husband Mike), son Kirk Rawlings, and grandchildren Tara, Billy, and Bobby Ellis as well as special niece Camela Lathrop (husband Rich) and their daughter Lydia.
Iris was preceded in death by her parents, Rex and Lois Avery, her husband Gerald, her youngest son Jason, and her beloved sister Gay Avery Troutman.
The family invites friends and relatives to a viewing on Thursday evening April 10th at Laurel Land Funeral Home in Fort Worth, Texas from 5 to 7 o'clock. A graveside ceremony will be held on Friday April 11th at her family plot in Laurel Land. The family deeply appreciates the outpouring of love, prayers, and support during this difficult time. Iris's legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
