Iris H Cooper

November 15, 1925 – January 23, 2025

Iris Floyd Hardin Cooper, 99, passed away peacefully on January 23, 2025. She was born on November 15, 1925, in Barnesville, NC to Rufus and Pheora Floyd. Growing up during the Great Depression, Iris often shared stories of her father, manager of the A&P, and how their family helped neighbors in need with goods from the store—an early reflection of her lifelong generosity.

Iris graduated as Valedictorian of Barnesville High School, where she also captained the girls' basketball team. She earned her business degree from the Raleigh School of Commerce. In 1945 she married her high school sweetheart, Gilbert Hardin, and in 1990 she married Clyde Cooper. A devoted member of Millbrook United Methodist Church since 1962, Iris treasured the friendships she built with her church and various circles. She played Canasta monthly with the same ladies for over 40 years. A talented seamstress, Iris poured her heart into creating clothing for her siblings and daughters, a labor of love she missed as she aged. She also found joy in tending her yard and spending time at the beach.

Iris is survived by her three daughters: Wanda Hardin Locklear of Charlotte; Sheree Hardin Parrish (Chip) of Raleigh; and Renee Hardin Allen of Garner. She leaves behind four beloved grandchildren: Ryan Locklear of Charlotte; Lesley Winchester (Josh) of Matthews; Geoff Parrish (Jackie) of London, England; and Bryce Parrish of San Francisco; as well as five cherished great-grandchildren: Ella Winchester, Ryder Winchester, Gabrielle Parrish, Cameron Parrish, and Caleb Parrish.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husbands, her sisters Katrina Leonard, Betty Ann Summers, and Bobbie Jean Barber, as well as her son-in-law Ronnie Allen and her grandson Brad Locklear.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the staff at Abbotswood of Stonehenge for their compassionate care and friendships, as well as to Transitions LifeCare of Raleigh for their support.

Iris’s life was a shining example of kindness, grace, and resilience. Her overwhelming kindness, radiant smile, and unwavering love for others will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

The funeral will be at 1:00 Friday, January 31, 2025 at Millbrook United Methodist Church. Reception will follow in the Pryor-Bradford Building at the church. Burial will be at Richmond County Memorial Park in Rockingham, NC on February 8, 2025 at 1:00.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Samaritan’s Purse,

https://www.samaritanspurse.org/our-ministry/nam/