Iris J. (Lanz) Davis

Iris Jewel Lanz Davis was born on August 3, 1931, to Erhart and Franis (Robinson) Lanz.

She attended grade school in rural Rock County. After grade school, she attended Rock County High in Bassett, where she boarded with her many girl cousins. Many fond memories were made with her cousins during High School. During the summers, she helped in the hay fields, running the buck sweep. After High School Graduation in 1949, she attended Chadron State Teachers College. Her teaching career started in a one-room schoolhouse in Rock County, and she could still tell you about some of her students.

After her marriage to Wayne on November 20, 1954, at Long Pine, Nebraska. To this union, two daughters were born, Carol Ann, on June 23, 1955, and Marcia Faye, on March 3, 1959. She continued to teach for 39 years in rural schools. 

Her summers were spent taking many college classes and helping on the farm. A favorite of hers was the flock of sheep they raised. She spent many hours playing with the sheep or pets. She had many cats and dogs who came into her life, bringing her much enjoyment.

Iris was a lifetime member of the Hay Springs Legion Auxiliary and the Nebraska Historical Society, and she was a counselor of the Girl State Senior Council.

After Wayne’s passing in 2007, she continued living on the farm and helping out where she was needed. In the fall of 2020, she moved into Pioneer Court. She lived there until 2024, when she moved to Pioneer Manor, and stayed there until her passing on June 19, 2026.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Erhart and Francis Lanz; her brother, Spencer; and her husband, Wayne “Buster” Davis.

She is survived by her daughters, Carol (John) Lewin and Marcia Sandberg. Three grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, four nephews, and one niece.