In Memory of Jo Iris Smith
Obituary
Jo Iris Smith was born to the union of Walter Smith and Melzina Avant who proceeded her in death. She lost her mother at a young age and Odessa Smith ( stepmother ) affectionately known as “ Madear” helped to raise her. She also had four brothers who preceded her in death; Ossie B. Smith , Jewell Smith Sr. Ben Smith and Norris Smith.
Jo Iris was a strong and independent woman who played a part in the civil rights movement in Memphis Tennessee. She was arrested with her cousin at a sit in at the Brooks Arts Museum that helped to integrate it. She was later honored by the NAACP as a hero in the civil rights movement. In Memphis Tennessee, she graduated from LeMoyne Owen College where she became a member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority. After graduation, she was a teacher for the public schools.
After a brief marriage in the early 70’s, she moved to Dallas Texas, where she remained until her death. In Dallas, she became head librarian and remained in that occupation for many years until she formed her own company “ Iris Enterprises Inc. “. She was very successful with her company and worked until she retired.
Jo Iris created a family of friends in Dallas Texas, as she thrived and eventually became known for her love of cats. She accepted all into her home and loved taking care of them. In her later years, she also became a dog mom who once saved her life when a fire broke out in her home.
She leaves to morn her passing; 1 sister in law ( Lucille Smith ) 3 nieces ( Valeria Reynolds , Lisa Smith, Leslie Keys ) 5 Nephews ( Ronald Smith, Gerald Smith, Patrick Smith, Bradrick Smith, Roderick Smith ) 1 cousin ( LaGarry Smith ) and a host of nieces and nephews . She will surely be missed by her friends Jackie Weldon, Elsie Sneed , George Chapman, Norman Hutchins, Kelester Jackson, Dianne Jackson, Nina Blair, Michael Wayne Davis, Charles , Doris Scott, Missionary Evangelist Addie F. Jackson.
The family wishes to thank her sister/brother circle of friends for loving and watching over her through the years. Jo Iris wishes were to be cremated and her ashes interred with her brother Jewell Smith Sr. The family will honor her wishes in a private ceremony at the New Park Cemetery -
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1. Thessalonians 5:15 - 18
LEADER: ( 5-12 )
And we urge you. Brethren. To recognize those who labor among you, and are over you in the Lord and admonish you.
Congregation: ( 5-13 )
And to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake. Be at peace among yourselves.
LEADER: ( 5-14 )
Now we exhort your, brethren, warn those who are unruly, comfort the faint hearted, uphold the weak, be patient with all.
Congregation ( 5-15 )
See that no one renders evil for evil to anyone, but always pursue what is good both for yourselves and for all.
LEADER: ( 5-16 )
Rejoice Always, pray without ceasing.
ALL: ( 5-18 )
In everything give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
An amazing woman to know. I was introduced to her by my husband Kelester “ AKA” ( Turtle ) and his friend Vic in 1999. K and Vic introduced their new wives. I could not wait to meet this woman that my husband had been talking about forever. What an incredible experience of 25 solid years. I was such a pleasure meeting Jo, She was graceful, kind, and loving. She loved on me as if I was her daughter. Her words were so soothing when she spoke, you would be in awe. She had a memory that you couldn’t imagine. It was a treat to always be around Jo Irish. I looked forward to getting together, going to her favorite place Jumbo Super Buffet. Jo, you will be missed.
We were both from Memphis, TN and our families lived in the same area of town. We would ride to and from Memphis together. She was instrumental in helping me continue with my education after having a child at a young age. She would always attend many of my family functions. Most of all she continued to support me in job and work endeavors. After receiving my masters, Jo Iris wanted me to continue. I will always be grateful for her love and support.
Ms. Smith came to Dallas West Branch Library ( Dallas Public Library ) as manager in 1971 or 1972. I was a librarian/outreach specialist. She was manger when new branch opened in 1975, at 2332 Singleton Blvd. She was a true trailblazer for black professionals for that period in Dallas Public Library. I owe a part of my growth, intellectually and other fronts to Ms. Jo Iris Smith
It seems as though it is a rare occasion when you meet someone these days who will be a real true friend for any length of time. I was lucky. I met Jo Iris over 60 years ago and we have been friends ever since. To have a friend you must be a friend. I was there for her and she was there for me. We often talked over the phone. I tried to get her to communicate by text if she had a brief message. But she wasn’t having it. Our telephone conversations were almost always over an hour long. I’m a man of a few words usually but with no Iris I always had something to say, And of course so did she. She was easy to talk to and to be around. There’s no replacing her. She was unique and I will miss her for the rest of my life. REST IN PEACE. George Chapman go his Heavenly Wings: September 4, 2025
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We will come together to remember and pay tribute to the wonderful person. While we mourn the loss of our dear, we also aim to cherish the moments shared and the joy brought into our lives. Your presence would mean a great deal to us during this time of remembrance and reflection.
4536 Horn Lake Road, Memphis , Tennessee 38109
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