Iris Anita Thomas, 74, of Charlotte, NC, passed away on Tuesday, February 3, 2026 at Northlake House Senior Solutions in Charlotte, NC.

Iris A. Thomas, a devoted woman of faith, educator, and beloved matriarch, peacefully transitioned from this life on Tuesday, February 3, 2026. She was born on July 8, 1951, in South Bend, Indiana, to the late Columbus T. Smith Sr. and Ethel L. Smith.

Iris received her early education in the South Bend Community School Corporation and graduated from Washington High School. She pursued her lifelong passion for teaching by earning a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education from Indiana University South Bend and a Master’s degree from Purdue University. She faithfully served as an elementary school teacher and Instructor at Ivy Tech College until her retirement, finding her greatest joy in teaching kindergarten, often sharing that she loved “teaching eager students to read.”

A woman of unwavering faith, Iris was a gifted pianist, songwriter, and author. She was best known as a praying woman of God—steadfast, compassionate, and powerful in prayer. Her life was a living testimony of faith in action, touching many through her music, wisdom, and quiet strength.

In August 1974, Iris married the love of her life, Raphael Thomas Sr., and together they built a life rooted in faith, family, and ministry. She was a faithful member of Saints Memorial Church of God in Christ until 2001, when she joined Faith Temple Church of God in Christ following her husband’s appointment as pastor. Iris served faithfully alongside him with humility and grace.

Following the passing of her beloved husband in July 2020, Iris relocated to Charlotte, North Carolina, where she united with Historic Sherman Memorial Church of God in Christ. There, she continued her service to the Lord as a devoted member of the Mother’s Board, offering prayer, encouragement, and Godly counsel.

Iris A. Thomas leaves to cherish her memory her children: bonus son, Brian (Liz) Edwards of Ville Platte, Louisiana; Krishna (Jerry) Walker of Portland, Oregon; Linda (Terrance) Foster of Rock Hill, South Carolina; Rachel Thomas of Charlotte, North Carolina; and son, Raphael (Patricia) Thomas Jr. of Kansas City, Kansas. Sisters: Siesta Butler of Indianapolis, Indiana; Regetta Goins of Bolingbrook, Illinois; Ethel (Michael) of Merrillville, Indiana; Brother: Columbus (Darlene) Smith Jr., of Minneapolis, Minnesota; Sister-in law: Gloria (John)Green of South Bend, Indiana, Dorothy Thomas of Ville Platte, Louisiana; Lahoma Thomas of Seattle Washington; Brothers in law: Jerry Thomas of Houston, Texas; Harry (Mary)Thomas Sr., of Chataigner, Louisiana, Nathaniel (Emily)Thomas of Renton, Washington and Donald (Theresa) Brown of Crosby, Texas. She also leaves 18 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, and a host of extended family, friends, former students, and church family who were blessed by her life. Preceding her in death was her loving husband, Pastor Raphael Thomas Sr.; Parents Supt. Columbus and Ethel Smith; Mother and Father-in law: Edward & Mildred Thomas.

Her legacy of faith, education, music, and love will continue to live on through all who knew her. Though she will be deeply missed, her impact and example will never be forgotten.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to:

Cora's Intergenerational Center

3301 Beatties Ford Rd, Charlotte, NC 28216