Iris Dorando Hill

Iris Dorando Hill, 77, of Macon, Georgia, passed away on Sunday, August 10, 2025. A Memorial Service will be held at 3:00 PM on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, in the Chapel of Hart’s at the Cupola, with Rob Betzel, Nate Edmonds, and Don Watson speaking. Iris requested that attendees wear Georgia Bulldog, Atlanta Falcons, or Atlanta Braves attire with blue jeans. A visitation will follow the service at Wild Wing Café, 5080 Riverside Drive in Macon.

Daughter of the late Tiny and Felton Hill, Iris was born in Macon on May 13, 1948. She attended Georgia Southern and then went on to earn both her bachelor's and master’s degrees from Georgia College. Iris became known as the first female football coach in the State of Georgia. She dedicated countless hours as the coach for football, tennis, and basketball teams at Southwest High School.

She was an avid bird watcher, fanatic sports fan, and found joy traveling in her RV. She was a fabulous artist, particularly skilled in pastels. Above all, family was Iris's heart and soul.

Iris is survived by her wife of 38 years, Judith Lee “Judy” Whitaker of Macon; daughter, Leah Corrissa Watson (Don) of Byron, Georgia; grandchildren: Jaxen Dean Watson and Maddox Paul Watson; sister, Cherry Carden (David) of Macon; nieces and nephews: Jessica Carden Betzel (Rob), Chad Carden (Christy), Starr Hill Peek, and Rusty Hill; sisters-in-law, Sandra Bowen and Robin Mercer (Bill) both of Cordele, Georgia; and brother-in-law, Travis Whitaker (Melody) of Cordele, Georgia.

In addition to her parents, Iris was preceded in death by her brother, Larry Hill and brother-in-law, Lamar Bowen.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Backpack Buddies, C/O Forest Hill Methodist Church, 1217 Forest Hill Road, Macon, GA 31210

Please visit www.hartsmort.com to express condolences.

Hart’s at the Cupola, Hart's Mortuary and Cremation Center, 6324 Peake Rd, Macon, GA 31210 has charge of the arrangements.