Iris Jean Hales Wood's Obituary
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Iris Jean Hales Wood, who entered into the presence of her Lord on July 20, 2026, at the age of 81.
Services will be 10:00 am Saturday, July 25, 2026 at First Baptist Church in Claude with Rev. Lance Wood, officiating. Burial will follow in Claude Cemetery in Claude.
Visitation will be held from 5:00-7:00 PM Friday at Robertson's in Claude.
Arrangements are under the care of Robertson Funeral Directors.
Born on November 3, 1944, in Tulia, Texas, to Joe Vern Hales and Billie Louise Turner Hales, Jean was raised with strong values of faith, family, and hard work. She graduated from Canyon High School in 1963 before attending beauty college and beginning her career as a beautician.
On February 17, 1966, Jean married Harry Roland Wood. Together they built a life rooted in faith, family, and the Texas ranching lifestyle.
Gifted with a creative spirit, Jean found her true calling as a florist. After working at HR’s in Canyon, she fulfilled her dream of opening Floral Expressions, where she shared her talent for creating beautiful arrangements that brought comfort, joy, and beauty to countless lives.
Jean loved the outdoors and God’s creation. She especially enjoyed wild mustangs, longhorn cattle, and horseback riding. She was a member of First Baptist Church of Claude.
Above all, Jean loved her family. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose kindness, quiet strength, and unwavering faith shaped generations. She had a remarkable way of making others feel loved, whether through a warm meal, a listening ear, or one of her beautiful floral creations.
Jean is survived by her daughters, Deniese O’Neill and husband Jim of Round Rock and Melissa Merrick and husband Joel of Claude; her grandchildren, Heather Richards, Samantha Tyree and fiancé Warren Witherspoon, Jeffrey Tyree and wife Mallory, Justin O’Neill and wife Katelyn; and her cherished great-grandchildren, Hunter Richards, Tripp Olmos, Rylee Richards, Kori Witherspoon, Bowen Tyree and Walker Wayne O’Neill.
She is also survived by her sister, Sue Meathenia; her sister-in-law, Linda Hales; her brother-in-law, Bill Wood and wife Paula, sister in law Lynna Wood and many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.
Jean was preceded in death by her parents, Joe Vern Hales and Billie Louise Turner Hales; her brother, Chester Hales; her sister, Sherry Welch; her brother-in-law, Jim Wood; and her nephew, Cory Hales.
Jean will be remembered for her gentle heart, creative spirit, steadfast faith, and unconditional love for her family. Though she will be deeply missed, her legacy of kindness, grace, and love will continue to bloom in the hearts of all who knew her.
“Well done, good and faithful servant- Enter into the joy of your Lord”— Matthew 25:23
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