Iris was a beloved sister, mother, and Nana whose presence brought warmth, strength, and unwavering love to everyone she met. She transitioned to her heavenly home on May 6, 2025, surrounded by family. She is preceded in death by her parents, Edward and Loftis Hubbard; her beloved sister, Loretta (Tina) Hubbard; and her great-grandson, Torrance Adams.
Born on January 3, 1950, at Alexandria Hospital, she was the daughter of the late Edward and Loftis Hubbard. The family lived in Washington, D.C., before settling in Alexandria, Virginia, where Iris was raised. She attended Alexandria Public Schools, starting at Lyles-Crouch Elementary School, followed by Charles Houston Elementary, Parker-Gray, and ultimately graduated from T.C. Williams High School in 1967.
From a young age, Iris was a hard worker. During high school, she held various jobs, including waitress, salesclerk, cashier, hotel maid, and AVON saleswoman. She also worked as a student aide in the federal government. Her dedication and work ethic carried her through many roles, including clerk typist, Pre-K teacher, cosmetology student, and serving proudly as a tour guard at Mount Vernon, the historic home of George Washington. She eventually built a successful career with the U.S. Department of State, retiring in 2007 as a contract specialist.
On August 16, 1967, Iris gave birth to her first child, Terrance Hubbard. The following year, she met Ollis Locke in May 1968, and they were married that August. Together with Terrance, they formed a new family and welcomed three more children: Kenzie, Sheritta, and Shae. Although Iris and Ollis later divorced in May 1980, the family remained close-knit and strong. Shortly afterward, Iris and her children relocated to California, where they lived for just over a year before returning to Virginia.
In August 1988, Iris achieved a significant milestone by earning her associate degree in business from Northern Virginia Community College. She continued to strive for more and later received her bachelor’s degree in business management from National Louis University in August 1999.
In April 1995, Iris moved into her first home on Jed Forest Lane in Woodbridge, Virginia. She became a beloved figure in the neighborhood, affectionately known to many simply as “Nana.” Iris was a pillar of the community, volunteering as a Brownie troop leader, Boy Scout helper, cheerleading coach, and Girl Scout co-leader. She also dedicated herself to her church, Harvest Life Changers Church, where she was an active and faithful volunteer.
In 2006, Iris made another significant move to Waldorf, Maryland, where her new home was built. Although she tragically lost that home to a fire in March 2022, by God’s grace, it was rebuilt in June 2024, serving as an enduring testament to her resilience and faith. Iris loved gospel and could often be found joyfully doing what her family affectionately called her “church bounce” to her favorite songs. One of her all-time favorites was "Say Amen" by Howard Hewett.
She is survived by her four children: Terrance (Jeanetta), Kenzie (Tawana), Sheritta (Wendell), and Shae' (Antonio). Iris also held a special place in her heart for two of her grandchildren, LaShay and JaNay, whom she raised as her own. She was the proud grandmother of 15 grandchildren and 37 great-grandchildren, all of whom she loved dearly and her loving oldest sister Gwendolyn Lewis. A host of cousins, nieces, and nephews and grandchildren that she took in. Known affectionately as “Nana” to everyone, Iris had an open heart and home she welcomed and cared for all without hesitation.
Services will be held on Friday, June 6, 2025
Woodlawn Faith - UMC 7010 Harrison Lane Alexandria, Virginia 22306
Memorial Service: 11 a.m.
Kanoee Reynolds sent Mixed Spray for Iris D Hubbard - June 01, 2025
Dear Sherita, my sincerest condolences to you and your family on passing of your beloved mother. Just know that you are in my prayers my 40+ Double Dutch Sister.
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.