Iris Lee Hampstead Woods Philleo

Philleo, Iris Lee Hampstead, age 86, of West Knoxville, passed away Saturday, June 11, 2011 at the home of her daughter. Iris was born and raised in Bell County, Kentucky and later moved to Knoxville where she attended Farragut High School and the University of Tennessee. After 15 years of service, Iris retired from the Tennessee Department of Human Services where she worked as an eligibility counselor. She was a member of the Knoxville Museum of Art and the Knoxville Historical Society. Iris enjoyed playing bridge and was a member of several bridge groups including Church Street United Methodist Monday night bridge club. In addition to bridge, Iris enjoyed books, music, her Saturday Night Supper Club and especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Her favorite sport was rugby because of her sons’ love and involvement in the game. In 1987, a service award was established in her name by the UT Rugby Club in recognition of her many years of dedication and support. She will be remembered for her generosity and hospitality for family and friends. The family would like to thank the residents of Westview Tower and the staff at Covenant Hospice for their care and support. Iris was preceded in death by her son, Emerson “Emmie” Freels Hampstead, Jr. and granddaughter, Jamie Jo Carlini. Survivors include her children: Janet Pack (Tom), Diane Carlini, Paul Hampstead, Bob Hampstead (Debbie), Michael Hampstead (Angela), Laura Benson (David Van Gelder), Mary Sweeney (Jeff), and John Philleo; 12 grandchildren; 14 great grandchildren and faithful companion, Sandy, her toy poodle. The family will receive friends 5-7 pm Tuesday, in the chapel of Berry Funeral Home, with a Celebration of Life service, led by Reverend Larry Trotter, to follow at 7pm. Family and friends will meet 9 am Wednesday at Berry Funeral Home and will proceed in procession to Mt. Olive Cemetery, Maryville Pike, for a 10 am interment service. Iris’ grandsons will serve as pallbearers. Memorials may be made to Friends of the Library, 500 W. Church Ave. Knoxville, TN 37902. The family invites you to share your condolences, as well as your thoughts and fond memories of Iris, on her memorial website at www.berryfuneralhome.com.