Iris Hewson was born on May 27, 1926, in Dublin, Ireland. She was the beloved mother of rock legend and U2 frontman, Paul David Hewson, famously known as Bono. Iris was a member of the Church of Ireland and during Bono's childhood, there was discussion about whether he and his brother would be raised in the Anglican or Catholic faith.
Iris was married to Brendan Robert "Bob" Hewson and together they had two children, Paul David and Norman Hewson. Tragically, Iris passed away from an aneurysm at her own father's funeral when Bono was just fourteen years old. Her untimely death deeply impacted Bono and would later become the subject of his song "Iris."
During the 1980s, Bono wrote the songs "I Will Follow" and "Tomorrow" in memory of his mother's passing. The emotional depth and raw vulnerability of these songs reflected Bono's grief and the profound impact that Iris had on his life.
Although Iris passed away long before she would have the chance to meet her granddaughter, actress Eve Hewson, her memory lives on through her family and the music of her son, Bono. Her life and untimely death played a significant role in shaping Bono's identity as an artist and as a son.
Throughout his career, Bono has continued to pay tribute to his mother's memory through his music. The song "Iris (Hold Me Close)" from U2's album "Songs of Innocence" is a powerful ode to the woman who played such a pivotal role in his life.
Iris Hewson may have left this world too soon, but her presence continues to be felt in the hearts of her family and in the music that her son, Bono, creates. Her legacy lives on through the memories shared by those who knew and loved her, and through the immortal sounds of U2.