Iris Kowal

October 20, 1950 - November 28, 2024

Iris (Lunsford) Kowal, 74, of Corning, NY, passed away on Thanksgiving, November 28, 2024. Born in Thomasville, Georgia, on October 20, 1950, Iris moved to New York at a young age, where she built a life filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. Iris had a fighting spirit, was an eternal optimist, and while she may not have had great wealth, she was by far the richest among us in love. 

At the tender age of 17, Iris gave birth to her daughter, Deanna Kowal (partner Matthew Burns). The two grew up together, forging a bond that was not only one of mother and daughter but also of best friends. They loved each other “more than dirt” and talked every day. Iris was an amazing mother who guided Deanna through life with unwavering love and support and her loss will be profoundly felt.

Iris was also blessed by her relationship with her son, Doug Taft (partner Cheryl Dalton). She was Doug’s biggest fan and his presence in her life brought her immense joy, as did the love she shared with her granddaughters Cassie, Taya (partner Rasean), and Sabrina (partner Eammon)—and her great-grandchildren, Remington and Aura. She loved being “Gigi” or “Babushka” and cherished each and every moment spent with her son and grandchildren.

Iris enjoyed reminiscing and laughing with her sisters Shirley Revelle (children Seth, Jack, and Rachel) and Janette Bowen (children Scott and Tina) as well as keeping in touch with her sister-in-law Ruth Sutter - all of whom were very dear to her and their love, prayers, and support meant so much to both Iris and Deanna during this difficult time. She also enjoyed keeping in touch with her nieces Angela, Christina, Melinda, and her nephew Michael.  

Throughout her life, Iris was blessed with many long-lasting and close friendships; in particular, she shared a lifelong bond with her childhood best friend, Donna Morris. Donna was like a second mother to Deanna and helped care for Iris during her illnesses and supported Deanna during many difficult moments. Donna and Iris created countless cherished memories together, from their beloved Friday night outings to Manzari’s to the everyday joys of a deep and lasting friendship.

Additionally, throughout the years, Iris enjoyed visiting with her lifelong friends Linda and Reinhard, Sharon and Donny, and Andie. She loved playing cards every week with her good friends Millie, Joan, Barb, and Jeannie and, more recently, playing trivia on Tuesday nights at the VFW with her friends Jeannie, David, Frankie, and Bill. And, thank God for her good friend Johnny V who lovingly and perpetually fixed her endless line of old junker cars.

In her down time, she loved drinking her Pepsi, eating pickles, scratching lottery tickets, playing games on her computer and watching old classics or re-watching her favorite movies—Harry Potter and Men in Black. Irises and butterflies each held special meaning for her.

Iris was predeceased by family members: mother, Myrtle Mae (Miles, Lunsford) Sutter; father, William R. Lunsford; brothers, Robert Lunsford and Richard Sutter; sister, Denise Hendershot; and her beloved niece Lisha McNamara. 

Known for her quick wit, infectious laughter, and a knack for making people smile, Iris was a one-of-a-kind soul. Her humor and love of life left an indelible mark on everyone she met. Whether she was sharing a joke, pondering life’s mysteries, or simply enjoying the company of others, Iris made every moment special.

Iris’s warmth, humor, and unique spirit touched everyone who knew her. Her legacy of kindness, laughter, and love will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. She will be sorely missed, but never forgotten. 

Until we meet again … 

Sweet Dreams. We love you. 

To honor Iris’s memory and fun-loving spirit the family will host a Celebration of Life event on January 25 at Corning VFW (details on Facebook events).

Please share your memories of Iris with the family on the tribute wall. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in her name to Pawz and Purrz Animal Rescue.

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