Iris Dean Meda, or Deanie as she was affectionately called, of Melissa, Texas, age 70, passed away on November 14, 2020 due to complications associated with Covid-19. She was born January 12, 1950 in Charleston, South Carolina to Elizabeth White and Clarence Singleton. Iris received a High School Equivalency Diploma from the University of the State of New York Education Department in 1976. She received an Associate Degree from Bronx Community College, and in 1984 received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from The City College City University of New York. She married John Meda in 1970. Iris is survived by her husband, John; sisters, Laura Coston, Lisa Campbell and Michelle Singleton; brothers, James Campbell, Vernon Campbell, Clarence Singleton and Phillip Singleton; daughter, Selene Meda-Schlamel; grandchildren, Ty Bui, Mai-An Bui, Elizabeth Schlamel and Tommy Schlamel. She was preceded in death by brother Kenneth Campbell and her beloved daughter Tanya Bui.
In her 35-year career as a registered nurse, Iris worked in hospitals, correctional facilities and nursing homes in New York and Texas. She retired in January 2020 from North Texas Job Corps Center. She returned to the workforce in August as a professor at Collin College, working with high school students enrolled in dual credit courses at Anna High School and Allen High School. She was passionate about education and equipping students with proper nursing skills to keep their future patients safe. She felt called to teaching and delighted in encouraging her students. Trained in service at an early as the oldest of 5 siblings, whom she cared for almost like a mother. Iris fondly recalled getting them ready and taking them to school when she was still in elementary school. Iris enjoyed connecting with people. Whether it was work, church or even the grocery store, Iris made friends everywhere she went. She had a servant heart and always responded when called upon by friends. Her passion was her family. She was dedicated wife, sister, mother and grandmother, and gave her very best to her family until the end.
A memorial service will be held at Covenant Church – McKinney Campus 975 S Central Expwy on Saturday, December 5, 2020, at noon. In lieu of flowers, please send donations by mail to Carver PTA at Carver Elementary School 2200 Wynn Joyce Rd, Garland, TX 75043. Please reference Tanya Bui Kindergarten Fund on the check.
