Iris L. Reed
Oct. 16, 1930-Jan. 21, 2025
Woodside, California

Iris Lucy Reed

With love and grace, Iris Lucy Reed, 94, of Woodside, California, passed away peacefully at home on January 21, 2025.

Born in London to Leslie and Alice Haines, Iris grew up during World War II, finding joy in her Scottish Terrier, Mack, and adventures with her brother, John. Despite bomb raids and interrupted schooling, she graduated from Stationers Public High School at 16.

Her love for animals led to her first job at the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, but she craved adventure. In 1952, with her parents’ blessing, she set sail for New Zealand via Australia. That trip changed everything—onboard, she met Ian Reed, an Australian Olympian fresh from the Helsinki Games. Three months later, they were married in Melbourne, beginning a life of adventure and great love.

They settled in Mt. Eliza, Australia, before starting fresh in the U.S. In 1956, after securing a sponsor, they arrived in New York, then moved to Dallas, where Iris worked at Neiman Marcus. Their first child was born in 1957, followed by two more after they moved to Los Altos, California. In 1968, they put down roots in Woodside, where Iris built a life full of love, friendship, and purpose.

In 1972, she launched a real estate career, becoming the first agent to open Wright & Company’s Woodside office. Her warmth and way with people made her a natural. But what truly filled her heart was giving back.

In 1995, Iris dedicated herself to Peninsula Volunteers Inc., where she became a powerhouse fundraiser and community connector. She made lifelong friends, found deep joy in helping others, and became a true fixture in the community. Her home was always open—whether you were a close friend or a stranger, you were welcome for tea.

Iris will be remembered for her kindness, quick wit, and love of the little things—crossword puzzles, classic cars, Jacques Pépin’s cooking, and most of all, the deep love she shared with Ian for 68 years. She was also an incredible knitter, gifting countless handmade treasures to those she loved.

She is survived by her sons, Steven Reed (Andrea) and Christopher Reed (Wendy), and her cherished grandchildren, Evan Reed, Olivia Dobberstein, Miranda Dobberstein, and Charlotte Reed. She was preceded in death by her daughter, Bronwyn Dobberstein (Steve), and will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her honor to Peninsula Volunteers Inc., Menlo Park, California.

Her adventurous spirit and generous heart will live on in those who were lucky enough to know her.