Iris Jayne Richards-Scott was born on March 19, 1955, in Boston, to Beverly Winnifred (Carrington) Richards and Leon Richards.
From an early age, Iris was known for her strength, warmth, and generosity. She grew up in Medford, surrounded by family, and developed the values that would guide her throughout her life: family, faith, and hard work. Iris was educated in Medford public schools and attended Spelman College in Atlanta, GA. After completing her education, Iris went on to become a teacher. She built a life defined by hard work, independence, creativity, and an unwavering commitment to caring for others.
She wore many hats over the course of her career, ranging from a court investigator for care and protection cases, a model, a vice principal at Mystic Valley Charter School, a personal trainer, to running her own international student placement agency, upon retirement becoming a foster parent. Nonetheless, her passion was focused on helping others. Of all the roles Iris held throughout her life, being a mother was among the most important to her.
She was the devoted mother of Brittany, Jayne, and Ari. Iris loved her children deeply and fiercely, and she gave of herself in ways both seen and unseen. She was a source of guidance, encouragement, and wisdom. Iris’ gift for mothering extended far beyond her own children. For many years, she served as a foster parent, opening her home to children who needed safety, stability, guidance, and love. For Iris, fostering was about much more than providing a place to stay. She understood that children needed to feel safe, valued, protected, and wanted. And perhaps most importantly, she showed us that family is not always defined by blood. Sometimes family is created through love, care, sacrifice, hospitality, and the willingness to make room for another person. Iris did not simply have a family. She created her family wherever she went.
On August 19, 2026, Iris Jayne Richards Scott peacefully transitioned from this life surrounded by her children and loved ones. Her passing leaves an immeasurable absence, but her life leaves an equally immeasurable legacy. Iris was preceded in death by her mother, Beverly Winnifred (Carrington) Richards, father Leon Richards, sister Sophia Hodges, and brother Edric "Rikki" Richards. Iris leaves to cherish her memory her beloved children, Brittany Belden-Scott and fiance Harry Harding, Jayne Adrianna Richards, Ari Richard-Scott and wife Cathe Richards-Scott. Her siblings, Rory Richards, and Craig Richards and wife Denise Richards as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and former foster children.
There will be visitation at West Medford Baptist Church, 59 Boston Avenue in Medford on Tuesday, September 1, 2026. from 9:30 am - 11:00 am. A funeral service will take place in the church at 11:00 am. Repast to follow.