Armstrong Funeral Homes Obituaries

About Armstrong Funeral Homes

When it comes to bidding farewell to a loved one, the selection of a compassionate and professional funeral service provider is paramount. Armstrong Funeral Homes, situated at 205 West Monroe Street in Mount Ayr, Iowa, epitomizes the blend of empathy and expertise needed during such a trying time. With a strong commitment to serving the community of Mount Ayr and its surrounding areas, Armstrong Funeral Homes stand as a beacon of support and comfort to grieving families.

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Armstrong Funeral Homes provides an array of services to cater to the diverse needs of the families they serve. Whether you are looking for a traditional funeral, a cremation with a memorial service, or a more personalized celebration of life, their experienced staff is equipped to meet your expectations. They offer everything from pre-planning assistance to help alleviate the burden on the bereaved during their time of loss, to care and preservation of the deceased, coordinating with churches and cemeteries, and providing grief counseling resources.

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Betty Comer - January 24, 1935 - April 22, 2024

Departed: 04/22/2024 (Mount Ayr)

Obituary Preview: Betty Lou Kaster Comer was a caring wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and great great grandmother. She left this world April 22nd, 2024, at age 89 (she celebrated her 39th birthday many times). She was born to Perry and Mildred Kaster on January 24th, 1935, in Mt Ayr, Iowa.

After graduating from Kellerton High School, she married Lee “Luke” Comer July 9th, 1953, in Wichita, KS.

Together they had six children, Reta (Chris) Hatfield, Urbandale, IA, Larry (Marcia) Comer, Osceola, IA, Rhonda (Brian) Whitney, Cameron, MO, Lori Wiele, Indianola, IA, Terry (Lory) Comer, Osceola, IA, Linda (Jim) Young, Clarinda, IA. 14 grandchildren, 16 great grandchildren, 3 great great grandchildren.

She is survived by her children; sisters Donna (Joe) Carson, Springfield, MO, Sue (Lowell) Fry, Granada, MS; brother Richard Kaster, Creston, IA.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; siblings Shirley Hosfield, Robert Kaster, Ronnie Kaster; son-in-law Tony Wiele; daughter-in-law Sue Comer; grandson Chase Comer; great grandson Kaleb McElroy; great great granddaughter Emiah Beck.

Family was her greatest joy! She loved cribbage, traveling, country music, reading, cooking, flea markets. She was a member of the First Christian Church.

Memorials are to the American Diabetes Association and Taylor Hospice House.

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Derik Estes - September 08, 1986 - April 18, 2024

Departed: 04/18/2024 (Mount Ayr)

Obituary Preview: Derik Allen Estes, son of David Allen & Deborah Jean Estes, was born September 8, 1986, at Atchison, Kansas. While in school, Derik was the class clown.

Derik married Megan Lynn Rapson and was the father of Chloe, Aden, Gage, and Cyrus. Derik was excited to be a grandpa to Oakleigh when she will be born in July.

Derik took pride in his farm jobs and lawn care. He loved mud racing with his family, tinkering on vehicles and little projects with his son Aden. He loved riding his motorcycle with family & friends, his trucks, and everything mechanical. Derik loved his pets Trixie, Polar, and Dot. He was a jokester and was always giving nicknames to everyone in the family. He was a lot of fun to hang out with and was a lot of laughs. Derik wasn’t afraid of anything and was a hard worker who provided for his family with pride. Most of all, Derik loved his family. He was proud of his children’s accomplishments. He spent as much time as he could with his family in his short life.

Derik passed away unexpectedly on April 18, 2024. He was preceded in death by his grandparents Almeda M Estes, Richard D Estes, David Estes, and Joyce Estes (Andrews).

Those left to cherish his memory include his wife Megan, children Chloe-17, Aden-16, Gage-14, Cyrus-11, all of Clearfield; parents Deborah J Estes of St. Joseph, MO; father David Estes of Creston, IA; sister Kendra M. Estes of St Joseph, MO; brother Eric D. Estes of Platte City, MO; half-siblings Katie Estes of St Joseph, MO and Walker Estes of Pattonsburg, MO; in-laws David S. Rapson and Lisa Rapson of St Joseph, MO; brother-in-law David Scott Rapson & wife and kids, all of Leavenworth, KS; grandparents-in-law Doug & Sherry Rapson and grandmother Rita Carr, all of Florida; several aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

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John Barber - November 07, 1947 - April 16, 2024

Departed: 04/16/2024 (Mount Ayr)

Obituary Preview: John Henry Barber was born November 7, 1947, to Manlea and Pearl (Senior) Barber in rural Bedford, Iowa. He attended school in Redding, Maloy and Mount Ayr and graduated in the US Army with his GED.

John was a construction worker in the Army in Vietnam and Alaska. He worked for local construction companies building ponds and roads and was in Des Moines working with McAninch and Elder Corporations.

John married Linda Hensley on April 25, 1970, in Grant City, Missouri. They enjoyed almost 54 years of marriage. To this union was born Dusty Verl in 1970 and Casey Lyle in 1977. His only grandson, Brenton Barber, was born to Casey & Charlotte Fletcher on August 10, 2000.

He enjoyed hunting with his favorite dog, Old Jim, and won many trophies with him. He also liked to fish and go mushroom hunting.

John tore down houses for materials to build the garage, CB shop and barn and helped with building their house 7 years ago. He ran the CB shop and enjoyed that until his health got worse.

John was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2019 and was in the Alzheimer’s unit in Clearview Home where he passed away on April 16, 2024, with hospice care.

John leaves his wife Linda; sons Dusty and Casey (Charlotte); grandson Brenton Barber; sister Keleta (Bill) Dunkeson; special cousin Madlyn Meek; sisters-in-law Myrna (Don) Harr, Dot Barber; brother-in-law Dick Hensley; nieces and nephews Bill Schuster, Belinda Jeralds, Bea Weir, Barry Schuster, Kathy Quick, Kelly Roach, Karen Hill, Alex, Colby, Tyler, Kaylee, Henry, Laura, Jack, Sherry Hall, Scott (Dana) Harr; many great nieces and nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents Manlea and Pearl Barber; sister Frances; brother Tob; in-laws Verl & Nellie Hensley, sister-in-law Verlene; brothers-in-law Gary and Billy Hensley.

Memorials are to the Alzheimer's Association, American Legion, and Benton Community Building.

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Gerald Duane Burgher - December 05, 1940 - April 14, 2024

Departed: 04/14/2024 (Mount Ayr)

Obituary Preview: Gerald Duane Burgher passed away peacefully at Auberge Memory Care in Ogden, Utah on Sunday, April 14, 2024.

Gary was born on December 5, 1940, to Edna and Lyle Burgher in Redding, Iowa.

Gary married his high school sweetheart, Dorothy Dukes, in 1961 and graduated with a Bachelor of Science from Northwestern in Maryville, Missouri in 1963. Gary and Dorothy had four children to which he shared his love of hunting, fishing, and guns.

He was well known for his in-depth knowledge and passion for competitive gun shooting. The family was close and bonded around this sport, helping to put together competitive shooting events as well as traveling the country to compete in them. His two sons gained much notoriety for their talent and skills fostered by their dad.

Gary was a kind and compassionate man, who was always ready to help anyone in need, and was especially happy to help others learn and grow. He spent countless hours in retirement volunteering at local gun ranges to teach and promote gun safety.

Gary is survived by his wife, Dorothy; his sons, Eugene Burgher of Grand Junction, Colorado and Donald Burgher of Ogden, Utah; daughters, Brenda Butchko (Rick Sackse) of Grand Junction and Jenifer Mazza (Frank Mazza Sr.); as well as numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. If you wish to send a card you can send to: Dorothy Burgher

101 Harrison Blvd. Ogden, UT 84404

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Phyllis Cregeen - February 08, 1946 - April 12, 2024

Departed: 04/12/2024 (Mount Ayr)

Obituary Preview: Phyllis (Smith) Cregeen (78) peacefully departed this world on April 12, 2024, in Rockford, Il.

Phyllis was born at home on February 8, 1946, to Cecil and Vesta Smith in Knowlton, Iowa. Phyllis married Dale Cregeen on June 19, 1966. In 1968, Phyllis and Dale Moved to Rockford. In July of that year, their son Douglas was born.

Phyllis is survived by husband Dale, son Douglas & (Debra) Cregeen; grandsons Mario (Stacy) McGuire and Jared (Melissa) McGuire; great granddaughters Haylee, Kyla, Keira, Harper and Finnley; sisters Irene Ayres and Barb Strange; brothers Jock (Robin) Smith and Gary (Brenda) Smith; sister-in-law Dorothy Smith. Phyllis also had many nieces and nephews and she loved them all.

She was preceded in death by her parents Cecil & Vesta Smith; sisters Betty Jean (Myran) Schnackenberg and Roxie (Charlie) Fletcher; brothers Cecil Edward Smith, Richard (Terry) Smith, John Smith and twins Lee and Dee Smith; brothers-in-law Bud Ayres and Bob Strange.

Memorials are to the American Cancer Society.

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Raymond Van Laar - March 21, 1927 - April 10, 2024

Departed: 04/10/2024 (Mount Ayr)

Obituary Preview: Raymond Wayne Van Laar, son of Fredric John & Helen Vye (Baker) Van Laar, was born March 21, 1927, at home near Grand River, Iowa. Raymond grew up on a farm and developed a love for the outdoors, nature, and living off the land. Raymond graduated from Grand River High School with the class of 1945. On December 27, 1948, Raymond was united in marriage to Anna Louise Fitzgerald. To this marriage was born two daughters: Janine and Janette.

Raymond was a true farmer. He farmed with his brothers, living no more than two miles apart. He raised turkeys and sheep in the earlier years and then cattle and pigs. There were row crops of corn, beans, and haying. He raised baby animals of every kind. He loved working in the garden, harvesting the bounty of vegetables and fruit trees. He picked raspberries, strawberries, gooseberries and made jam for family and friends. Every year, Raymond would pick up black Walnuts. He spent endless hours husking them, cracking them and spent evenings in front of the TV picking out the nuts and putting them in pint jars. The jars of cracked Walnuts would then be given away or donated to church sales and community center sales. Raymond loved to go fishing. Over the years, family & friends would travel with Raymond to Minnesota or Canada for fishing trips. Raymond loved nature so much that he made Bluebird houses and then would travel the countryside putting them up. Each spring, he would go back around and clean out the houses for the Bluebirds to lay new eggs in. Raymond loved to trap, and he’d sell the furs so that he and Anna would have Christmas money. Raymond was a longtime Lions Club member and was honored with a plaque for his 54 continuous years as Gatekeeper at the Grand River rodeo. He loved baseball and basketball with the Iowa Hawkeyes and St Louis Cardinals being his favorites.

Raymond and Anna retired into Grand River in 2006. He made Clearview Estates his home in early 2024. On April 10, 2024, Raymond peacefully passed away at Clearview Home in Mount Ayr.

Raymond was preceded in death by his parents; wife Anna on April 12, 2022; granddaughter-in-law Natalie Cooney; brothers John & Verda Van Laar and Donald & Merna Van Laar; sisters Lucille & Martin Kraus, Lurene & Carl Brammer, Dorothy Jenkins; in-laws Charles Fitzgerald, John & Donna Fitzgerald, William & Aves Fitzgerald, Doyle Wookey, Duane Wookey.

Survivors include daughters Janine & Tim Cooney of Ottumwa, IA and Janette & Darren Campbell of Mount Ayr, IA; grandchildren Chris Cooney, Matt & Jennifer Cooney, and Makenzie & Brock Still; great grandchildren Dylan, Tatiana, Gavin, Maxx, Jaxx, Kambreigh, and Aspen; sisters-in-law Norma Binning and Doris Wookey, both of Grand River, IA; sister-in-law Betty Fitzgerald of Des Moines, IA; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

A memorial fund has been established for the Grand River Community Center.

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A.J. Parker - June 09, 1929 - March 19, 2024

Departed: 03/19/2024 (Mount Ayr)

Obituary Preview: Alva Jesse Parker was born at home June 9, 1929, to Milo Alva Parker and Florence Irene Dooley on the family farm north of Diagonal on P27 and died peacefully at Clearview Home in the morning at 11:15 the 19th of March 2024.

A.J., the 1st of 3 boys, walked to attend country school through the 8th grade. He graduated from Diagonal High School with the class of 1948. A.J. taught at one of Diagonal’s country schools after graduation from high school. He also attended I.S.U. Teachers College and graduated in 1966. In 1967, A.J. went on to attend Nursing School in Kansas City, Missouri and graduated in 1968.

A.J. farmed for a few years and operated the early Creston grain storage facility on the east side of Creston, Iowa for a number of years. A.J. married Edna Marie Kilgore of Diagonal, Iowa and together they had 5 children: Jeanette Ann, Gary Lee, Teresa Kay, Randy Allen, Teena Dee, and Alva Robert, who died in infancy.

A.J. was drafted into the U.S. Army on August 15, 1951, during the Korean War. He served as a supply sergeant nurse and received Korean Service Metal with 4, Bronze Service Stars, United Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal. A.J. continued in the Army Reserve in the states. He also served as teacher 0 30 110. He was honorably discharged on August 4, 1953.

After his discharge from service in South Carolina, A.J. bought a Piper Cub airplane and flew from South Carolina to Diagonal, Iowa with approximately 1/2 hour of flying under his belt. A.J. did a lot of flying, both solo and taking the family too.

He flew new dealership planes to dealers in southeastern states, New Orleans, Kentucky, and Florida to name a few, logging over 7000 VFR and IFR combined.

Many adventures took place in his flying expeditions running out or low on gas, clubbing tires with trees, road landings, field takeoffs and landings and brakes on all types of equipment and vehicles were always an issue.

Trying many things in life, his adventurous type went into nursing home ownership operating and expanded to 5 homes in Kansas City, Missouri, Plattsburg, Missouri, Higginsville, Missouri, Independence, Missouri and Ketsville, Missouri.

A.J. was always into something, traveling on business, even into foreign countries, Africa on business ventures and tire recycling and railroad recycling and plastics. A.J., in his late 60’s, started the landfill & commercial trash operation on the family farm with his brother Lawrence.

A.J. was preceded in death by his parents; wives Hazel Thompson of Independence, Missouri and Edna Parker of Diagonal, Iowa; infant son Alva Robert Parker; infant son with Sonia Bianca Caballero; daughter Teena D. Parrott; 2 brothers Lawrence Parker and Charles R. Parker.

A.J. is survived by his wife Sonia Bianca Caballero; children Jeanette Pettit of Diagonal, Iowa, Gary Parker of Santa Rosa, California, Teresa (CA) Good of Diagonal, Iowa, Randy Parker of Windsor, California; 9 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren.

Family & friends will gather at the United Church of Diagonal on Saturday, April 27 from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. and then travel in a procession to the Rising Sun Cemetery, northeast of Diagonal, where there will be a graveside service. At the gravesite, there will be military honors by Morris-Herrold Post 395, American Legion and the U.S. Army Honor Guard Unit. A luncheon will follow at the United Church of Diagonal.

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Bill England - November 17, 1946 - March 18, 2024

Departed: 03/18/2024 (Mount Ayr)

Obituary Preview: William (Bill) Dean England, born November 17th, 1946, in Creston, IA to Lloyd Courtney and Evelyn Belle (Smith) England. Bill departed this life on March 18, 2024, at the Mount Ayr Health Care Center.

Bill, the youngest in his family, was welcomed home by siblings Robert, Doris, Jim, Myrna, and Larry on the family farm near Tingley. His roots in agriculture were deep, evident in his lifelong affection for farming, cherished red tractors, and beloved cows.

After attending school in Tingley and graduating from Mount Ayr High School in 1965, he married Doris Dukes, and from their union came Mary Jean in February 1966 and Kenneth William in June 1969. In July 1984, Bill married Lois Todd. To their union was brought Pamela Jo in September 1985 and Christina Elaine in March 1989.

Bill's passions extended beyond the fields; he found delight in farm auctions, perusing through agricultural magazines, and later, in nurturing his garden. His pride in the kohlrabi he grew was unmistakable, as was his unexpected fondness for his feline companions in his later years.

Throughout his life, Bill called Afton and Creston home, with a brief time at the Homestead Assisted Living facility. In January 2020, declining health led him to the Mount Ayr Health Care Center, where he found comfort and care until his journey's end.

In his passing, Bill rejoins his beloved parents, Lloyd and Evelyn, along with his siblings Jim, Robert and his wife Lois, Doris and her husband Curtis, and niece Sharene England Culp.

He is survived by his children: Mary Jean Esteban of Kansas City, MO; Kenny and wife Amanda England of New Orleans, LA; Pam and husband Wally Brokaw of Diagonal; and Christina and husband Jeremy Sobotka, also of Diagonal. His grandchildren, Courtney and Tyler Esteban, Treyton and Hayden Still, and Kendall and Rhett Sobotka. His siblings, Myrna and husband Steve Spurlock of Maryville, MO, and Larry and wife Joyce England of Mount Ayr, along with sister-in-law Marian Jennings and a host of nieces and nephews.

Bill's life was a testament to the quiet joys of rural living, and the simple pleasures found in tending the land. Memorials are to Mount Ayr Health Care Center

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Darrell Hall - September 13, 1944 - March 15, 2024

Departed: 03/15/2024 (Mount Ayr)

Obituary Preview: Darrell Eugene Hall, age 79, of Ozark, Missouri, was born September 13, 1944, at the hospital in Osceola, Iowa, the son of Ira Alberta and Sylvia Mae (South) Hall. He died March 15, 2024. He was welcomed home by older brother Jerry and sister Phyllis. He was a happy child and started life on a farm near Van Wert with his family.

The Hall family moved from the Van Wert, Iowa area in 1950 to a farm south of Kellerton, Iowa where Darrell grew up. Darrell and Jerry helped on the family farm with chores, milking cows and feeding hogs. He learned to drive the pickup and tractor in the pastures. As he grew, he helped in the fields, cultivating, planting, and putting up hay. All the kids helped with shocking oats and walking beans. Darrell had a Sunday Des Moines Register paper route for extra money. He enjoyed playing basketball in high school and graduated from Grand Valley Community High School in Kellerton in 1962. Darrell attended Centerville Community College and received an associate degree in electronics.

Darrell married Sue Ann Harvey on October 1, 1965, at the First Baptist Church in Mount Ayr, Iowa. Their son, Robert Darrell, was born January 19, 1969, and son, David Eugene, was born September 10, 1971. Darrell started his career working for Dictaphone Corporation in Des Moines, Iowa. He and Susie then relocated to Kansas City, Missouri, Overland Park, and later Lenexa, Kansas. Darrell continued his career with Dictaphone, serving as their District Service Manager for over 40 years. He understood technology and passed that knowledge on to his son Rob. Pre-retirement he spent a few years working at Lowes where he was able to dispense sound advice to shoppers.

After Darrell retired, he and Susie moved to Ozark, Missouri in 2010, and enjoyed the shows and other activities around Branson. The Ozark Senior Center became their favorite place where they enjoyed lunch with friends. Darrell spent many hours playing pool with his pool room buddies, attending Tuesday and Thursday evening pool sessions, and had a high opinion of his pool playing ability! They had a great group of Senior Center friends and went out to eat with several couples most Saturday nights.

Darrell was a sentimental and patient man who loved and supported his family. His son, David, participated in skiing, rodeo, basketball, bowling among other sports. David was honored to attend the World Special Olympics dead lifting competition where his parents cheered him on. They attended most of his competitions and had many friends in the Special Olympics community. Darrell was an excellent role model for Rob, providing guidance in his career, raising children and life in general. Darrell and Susie opened their home to nieces who lived with them during summer college breaks. Above all, his wife Susie was his top priority and he loved and cared for her every day of their marriage. He did all he could to help her remain active and make her life easier.

Survivors include his wife of 58 years, Susie; sons Robert Hall of Kansas City, Missouri and David Hall of Parsons, Kansas; grandchildren Brett, Jake, Ashlynn, and Parker; sister Phyllis Sickels and husband Mack of Mount Ayr, Iowa; mother-in-law Joan Harvey of O’Fallon, Missouri; and sister-in-law Kathy Herron and husband John of Lake St Louis, Missouri; other relatives and many friends.

Darrell was preceded in death by his parents, Ira and Sylvia; brother Jerry, and father-in-law Don Harvey.

Memorials are in his name to be decided.

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Dick Walden - January 10, 1940 - March 09, 2024

Departed: 03/09/2024 (Mount Ayr)

Obituary Preview: Dickie Wayne Walden was born on January 10, 1940, to William and Gladys Rouse Walden. He was the fifth child.

Dick grew up in Hannibal, Missouri and attended elementary and high school in Hannibal.

In 1958, the Hannibal Church of the Nazarene was having a special revival service with Rev. Nettie Miller from Columbus, Georgia. During the revival he was invited to the services. During the meeting conviction gripped Dick’s heart and he went to the altar to be saved, forgiven of any and all sins ever committed. In same meeting on May 28, 1958, he gave his all to the Lord for however he desired to use him for the upbringing of God’s Kingdom here on earth and on May 29, in same meeting, he went forward to be sanctified wholly.

A few years later during his devotional time God directed him to Malachi 3:1 which says. “Behold I send My messenger” and God spoke directly to him saying, “I want you to be My messenger”. Dick said, “Lord here am I”, and Dick continued to be faithful to God.

Dick was united in marriage to Virginia C. Marks on July 6, 1961. To this marriage was born four children: Rachel Sue, Timothy, Raydeen, and Mark Paul.

Dick began his home studies so he would become an ordained elder with the Church of the Nazarene. His first pastorate was in Mountain View, Missouri for 2 years later; Harrison, Arkansas for 2 years; Montgomery City, Missouri for 2 years. Dick felt called to resign at the time and go to Colorado Springs, Colorado to attend Nazarene Bible College, from which he graduated in 1973.

With his faithful wife Virginia, their first pastorate was in Atmore, Alabama. Following a good ministry there, they moved East to Claxton, Georgia for 2 years. Dick completed all studies and was ordained elder in Atlanta, Georgia. They continued to pastor at Claxton and then moved to Fort Valley, Georgia for 3 years.

In 1979, they received a call to move to Burlington, Iowa; in 1981, they went to Creston, Iowa until 1985 when they were assigned to Sioux City, Iowa. They served in Sioux City for the remainder 18 years of active ministry to the Lord.

In 2011, Dick & Virginia moved to the Tingley & Mount Ayr communities. On March 9, 2024, Dick left this earthly life to forever be in the presence of his Lord & Savior.

He is survived by his wife of 62 years Virginia Walden of Mount Ayr, Iowa; children Rachel Sue Jones of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Timothy (Carman) Walden of Lawton, Iowa, Raydeen Derscheid of Mount Ayr, Iowa, Mark Paul Walden, Sr of Des Moines, Iowa, 14 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren; 4 siblings Kenneth of Bellville, Illinois, Jack Walden of Hannibal, Missouri, Russell Walden of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, Linda Underhill of Hannibal, Missouri; and numerous other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Darrell, William Henry, Jr, Larry, and Michael.

Memorials are to Missions.

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Jacquie Timmons - October 05, 1938 - March 06, 2024

Departed: 03/06/2024 (Mount Ayr)

Obituary Preview: Jacqueline (Jacquie) was born to John and Bernice Wiley on October 5, 1938 at home on their farm near Conway, Iowa.

Jacquie went to two different country schools and then to Clearfield Community School where she graduated in 1957. After high school, she moved to Des Moines, Iowa and started working at Bankers Life (Principal Financial Group). She worked there for 43 years, retiring in 2000. In retirement, she continued working at Principal part time and volunteered at the Pleasant Hill Library.

Jacquie married Robert Timmons in 1964. They raised a son, Edd. She also has two step children, Cindy (Timmons) Silliman and Bob Timmons who both live in Arizona. Robert and Jacquie were later divorced, but remained friends.

Jacquie's family was her first priority and her greatest joy. She loved her home, yard, and flowers. She also enjoyed her friends and neighbors.

Jacquie loved to travel and went on tours with her bank to Alaska, New England Islands, Austria, Germany, Switzerland, Italy and Hawaii. Italy was her favorite but she continued going to Hawaii for the next 12 years. New York City was also a favorite. Her friend Fran went on trips to Las Vegas, Philadelphia, Washington DC, New York City, and Phoenix with her. In recent years, Jacquie started going to Florida where her son lived.

Jacquie passed away March 6, 2024. She is survived by close friend Robert “Bob” Timmons, stepchildren Cindy Silliman (Marc), Bob Timmons (Jennifer), grandchildren Sydney (Ricky)and Grace, Amanda (Matt), and Josh (Jamie) and several great grandchildren, her brother Bill Wiley (Sharon) and family, and her niece and nephews. Jacquie had many, many friends and associates that she worked with and cherished over the past years.

Preceding Jacquie in death was her son Edd Timmons, parents, John and Bernice Wiley, her sister Janice Jo Rong and her half-sister Joan Owens.

Condolences and cards may be sent to Armstrong Funeral Home in care of Jacquie Timmons family.

Graveside services will be held at the Clearfield Cemetery, 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, April 2, 2024. A memorial fund has been established for the Pleasant Hill Public Library.

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Mary Lu Schofield - March 01, 1933 - March 03, 2024

Departed: 03/03/2024 (Mount Ayr)

Obituary Preview: Mary Lu Schofield, one of twelve children of Mary Ethel (Smith) Beemer and Simmie Bryan Beemer, was born on March 1, 1933, in rural Conway, Taylor County Iowa. She grew up and attended Conway Consolidated Schools, graduating in 1953.

Lu met the love of her life, Lloyd Junior Schofield, at the Lenox Skating Rink above Bunn Jewelry Store. They were married in Conway at the Methodist Church on August 4, 1953, with Penny and Galen Combs as attendants. Three days later, Lloyd was drafted to Korea. Lu lived and worked at the Conway Phone Office. Lloyd returned from Korea, and in 1957 they moved to their current residence, the farm east of the big tree, where the four county corners are marked. In 1959 their first child, Brian Jack Schofield was born. Bonnie Beth came next in 1962, and Deena Kay in 1966. Lu was a homemaker and helped Lloyd on the farm as the kids grew up. She enjoyed painting, gardening, sewing and baking. There were numerous neighborhood social clubs that she enjoyed belonging to. In 1991, Lloyd unexpectedly passed. Lu remained on the farm and worked as an assistant preschool teacher. She was an active member of the First Christian Church in Clearfield. Her favorite things were dancing, quilting and spending time with family, grandchildren and friends. She enjoyed her 91st birthday on March 1 with family present.

Lu passed away early morning of March 3, 2024, in Creston, Iowa surrounded by her children. She was preceded in death by her husband, Lloyd; mother, father; siblings Beth, Bryce “Spike” Dale, Virgil “Joe”, Betty, Joyce, and Dean; in-laws Vern and Mary Schofield, Norma Jean (Schofield) Johnson, Wayne Schofield, Lyle Miller (Alice Ann), Marvin “Wigg” Boyer (Betty), Ralph Ridnour (Joyce), Vivian Beemer (Virgil), Beverly “Buzz” Beemer (Bryce).

Lu is survived by her children Jack Schofield of Lenox, Bonnie (Brad) Fast of Arkansas, and Deena (Jeff) Bevins of Creston; grandchildren Tanner, Morgan, Haley, and Garrett; step-grandchildren Katie, Christy, Ethan, Michaela, Jared and Collin; great step-grandchildren Ellie, Jaxon, Jack and Kaycee; siblings Alice Ann “Goubie” Miller of MO, Jerry (Jean) Beemer of Ankeny, Sally (Gary) Hensley of Corning, Tim (Linda) Beemer of TX; sisters-in-law Betty Jean Beemer of WY, Zoe Beemer of Conway.

A memorial fund has been established to the Clearfield Christian Church, Clearfield Public Library and Lenox Public Library.

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Susan Quall - May 31, 1955 - March 03, 2024

Departed: 03/03/2024 (Mount Ayr)

Obituary Preview: Susan Annette Quall was born May 31, 1955, in Janesville, Wisconsin to Eugene and June (West) Heagney.

She earned an accounting degree from Upper Iowa University.

Sue was truly a wonderful woman. She’s soft spoken, patient, kind, caring, easy going and understanding. She, without question, had the “show up” mentality. She loved her family, was always so proud of her boys, and lived to spend time with Madi and Archie. She loved quilting and made the most beautiful quilts for the people she loved. She had a love for horses and her dogs, enjoyed a competitive game of cards, baking and sewing with Madi and absolutely anything that involved her family.

Sue passed away on March 3, 2024. She was preceded by her parents; her siblings Linda Heagney, Mary Howard, and John Heagney.

Sue is survived by her husband Thomas Quall; children Cale (Kelsey) Quall and Lance (Haley) Quall; grandchildren Madilynn and Archer Quall; siblings Lori (Tim) Pfeiffer, Nancy Heagney, David (Joette) Heagney and Lisa (Randy) Kalish; brother-in-law Tim Howard; sister-in-law Beverly Heagney; and other relatives and friends.

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Cindy Morgan - November 20, 1954 - March 01, 2024

Departed: 03/01/2024 (Mount Ayr)

Obituary Preview: Cindabeth Suzanne (Sims) Morgan was born in New York state on November 20, 1954. At the age of six months she was adopted by John Albert Sims and Elizabeth Margaret (Potter) Sims, who had long desired to have children. She preserved a letter written by her father to his father, describing the delight they felt at her arrival. But Cindy did not have the luxury of being an only child for long, as her younger sister, Vickie, was born in February of 1956.

Her earliest years were spent on her parents’ dairy farm (Guernseys) in upstate New York, sharing the household with two large boxer dogs, Ginger and Dubby, who took immediately to the new little ones in the family.

In 1959, the family moved to Ames, Iowa where her father completed his PhD and went on to become a member of faculty at ISU. The family moved to their home on Maxwell Avenue in 1961, and Cindy attended Meeker Elementary, Central Junior High and Ames High, graduating in 1973. Cindy was rather a shy child, but found her areas to shine. She enjoyed art, swimming and was an accomplished bowler.

She met her husband Neil while she was working at Iowa State and they married on 28th April 1979, moving to Illinois where Neil was employed as a farm manager for a local bank. Cindy had begun her college studies at Iowa State and later completed her degree at the University of Illinois in child development.

Shortly after Cindy became pregnant with Julie in 1981, the Morgans returned to Mt Ayr so that Neil could return to the family farm. Cindy, always rather a ‘city girl’ (the mark of ‘civilization’ being the presence of a shopping mall), struggled with farm life at first. While she never made her peace with rounding up cattle that had escaped during the night, she did come to appreciate many aspects of rural life. After the birth of their second daughter, Katie, in 1982, she focused her energies on raising her two daughters. She spent countless hours playing house, reading books and enjoying all the activities motherhood had to offer while staying home with her girls. Once the girls were old enough, some of Cindy’s favorite jobs included working with children at Mt Ayr Elementary School as an aid and the Family Resource Center. Later in life, much of her love and attention shifted to her grandchildren. There were always plenty of hugs at Grandma Cindy’s along with the soft drinks and candy you weren’t allowed to have at home. And cats to play with!

It was a great joy for Cindy to be able to move into her house on East Adams in recent years. This meant being even closer to the grandchildren’s daily lives---and her house became the meeting point for after school friends and homework.

Cindy offered her time and talents to her local Methodist church, and, while cooking was never ‘her thing’, she was a good friend and neighbor, always ready with a word of encouragement, or a greeting card with just the right message.

In her later years, Cindy grew curious about her birth family, and while initially the information she was allowed to access was very limited, she was able to find out that she was born as one of the younger children to a larger family. It came as a real surprise when Cindy was ‘found’ through an ancestry site by a niece---the daughter of one of her birth brothers, Ted. This led to a reunion between the two in 2017.

Throughout her life, Cindy suffered with various health issues, yet she retained her sense of humor and worked through her darkest times with perseverance and courage. In recent weeks she had determined that the time was right to enter hospice care at home, so that she could simply enjoy the company of her family in the surroundings that brought her serenity and joy. She died peacefully at home, enfolded in the love of her family, on 1st March.

Cindy, with her loving and generous heart and her unique approach to life, will be deeply missed. She has left her mark of love on so many. May she rest in peace.

Surviving are her children: Julie (Justin) Neas and Katie (Matt) Routh. Grandchildren : Clay (Amber) Neas, Brody Neas (finance Kylee Smith), Ella Waske, and Claire, Nash and Libby Routh. Great grandchildren: Brantley and Delaney Neas; Sister: Vickie (David) Sims Tabbat.

A memorial fund has been established to the Mount Ayr Raider Education Foundation.

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Vincent Weber - August 29, 1949 - February 18, 2024

Departed: 02/18/2024 (Mount Ayr)

Obituary Preview: He was the nicest man! Vincent Thomas Weber was born on August 29, 1949, at Xavier Hospital in Dubuque, Iowa to Ernest “Tommy” and Evelyn (Markham) Weber. He was joined a few years later by a brother, Rob. Vince attended St. Patrick’s Grade School, Wahlert High School and Loras College in Dubuque, Iowa. He earned a Masters of Social Work from the University of Iowa in Iowa City, Iowa and a law degree from Drake University College of Law in Des Moines, Iowa. He got his first job at the age of nine helping the janitor at his grade school, and from then on had at least one job until he retired 50 years later.

He met Sharon Lesan at their mutual workplace at the Iowa Department of Elder Affairs in Des Moines, Iowa and they married in 1986. In 1988 they moved to rural Alaska (fulfilling a childhood dream) where he worked in both law and social work with the Native Yupik Eskimo population. For the next 20 years they traveled across Alaska, the United States, and Europe. In 2008 they moved to Ankeny, Iowa and Vince volunteered for many years with the Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP).

A man of quiet faith, he and Sharon attended Ankeny First United Methodist Church. He bore years of ill health with uncommon dignity. He cherished his family, particularly the grandchildren; they called him “Uppa”. He was famous for organizing the annual family Christmas cookie house decorating competition – everyone got a “Champion” ribbon. He was truly a “stop-and-smell-the-roses” kind of guy, literally incapable of going from Point A to Point B without a detour to check out something interesting. He loved nature; he fed the backyard birds and squirrels and maintained a composting worm farm. He was a voracious reader, subscribing to at least eight on-line newspapers and keeping Amazon in business by ordering books recommended in those newspapers.

Vince died at home on February 18, 2024, from kidney cancer. Preceding him in death were his parents, Ernest “Tommy” and Evelyn (Markham) Weber and parents-in-law Robert and Lorriane (Drake) Lesan.

He is survived by his wife, Sharon Lesan; stepdaughter Christy (David) Caldwell; step-grandchildren A.J. Caldwell, Zach Caldwell, and Olivia Caldwell; brother Rob Weber; sister-in-law Jacque Defenbaugh; brother-in-law Gene Lesan; Godchild Dawn (Chad) Leuken; special cousin, John (Ellen) Markham.

The family would like to thank the following for their compassionate care; Dr. Dan Buroker and team at Mission/Stoddard Cancer Center; Stacy and Alicia and staff at Every Step Hospice; Bill Armstrong and staff at Armstrong Funeral Home.

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Darlene Morgan - December 09, 1928 - February 04, 2024

Departed: 02/04/2024 (Mount Ayr)

Obituary Preview: Heaven gained a special angel on February 4, 2024. Darlene Mae (Poore) Morgan was born at home in Beaconsfield, Iowa to Orville Poore and Pauline Mae (Stetzler) Poore on December 9, 1928. She was joined in 1930 by Dorine and Doris (the twins) who died in infancy. Don was born in 1931 and Duane a year later. Darlene started school at Stoney Point and finished elementary and high school at Ellston High School.

She met Leo Morgan at a dance in Creston. She was on a date with someone who was talking to his buddies instead of talking to her so when Leo asked her to dance, she accepted. He asked her out for New Year’s Eve and that was the beginning of their romance.

Darlene entered Central Business College in Kansas City, in September 1946, and finished as soon as she could and began looking for a job in March of 1947. She stayed with her maternal Aunt Lola and Uncle Everett Bentch. Leo would pick Darlene up at the bus stop in Lamoni when she came home for the holidays and weekends.

Leo proposed in July, and they married November 9, 1947, at the Beaconsfield United Methodist Church. They moved into Leo’s farmhouse south of Ellston, where they raised five children. Connie Sue, Ronald Leo, Nancy Joyce, Neil Evan and Janelle Marie.

Attending church was very important to her and Leo and they delighted in filling a whole pew on Sunday morning. Darlene’s love of Christ was central to raising her family. Darlene had played the piano in high school for the choir and music groups and played the organ and piano for church, funerals and weddings. She held the District Office of Global Missions for United Methodist Women along with several local offices. She has always been a member of the United Methodist Church. She was also a member of the neighborhood Fellowship Club, Mt Ayr Choral Club and the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution.

When the children were young, Leo would go to Ellston on Saturday night to play cards while Darlene bathed the kids and got them ready for bed. He would bring home ice cream as a treat. Later, they were involved in a card party group that met on Saturday nights and then everyone would see each other the next morning at church.

In the 1960s, Darlene worked at the Ringgold County Hospital as a nurse’s aide in the nursery. Leo felt he was paying more for a farm hand than mom was making so they decided mom would quit her job to be dad’s farm hand along with raising the children, and being a homemaker, gardener, seamstress etc. Later, when Jan started school, she returned to the hospital and worked in the business office for several years. After that she worked during tax season for Arlan Hughes Law Office.

Leo and Darlene moved to Mt Ayr in 1995 into a new house they built on East Columbus Street. Darlene lived there until 2016, when she moved to a home across the street from her daughter in Greenfield. She was involved in 2 pitch clubs, UMW, Sunday School, DAR and a bridge club. She loved gardening, her flowers and walking.

Leo and Darlene traveled all around the United States and Europe together. The only 2 states she did not visit were Florida and Hawaii.

She moved to Clearview Assisted Living in 2020 and into the Clearview Nursing Home in 2021.

She is preceded in death by Leo, Neil, Orville and Pauline, Dorine and Doris, Don (Emily) Poore, Duane (Willa) Poore, Vera (Jack) Hill (sister-in-law and husband) and John Wright (son-in-law).

Surviving are her children: Connie (Gary) Wiechmann, Ronald (Marta Burkgren) Morgan, Nancy Wright (Dave Hard), and Janelle Morgan. Grandchildren: Meridith (Jeff) Sandlin, Tim Burkgren Morgan, Erica (Grant) Boliver, Julie (Justin) Neas, Katie (Matt) Routh, Josh Livingston, Jill (Jonas) Ray, and Jasmine (Jesse) Clarke. Great Grandchildren: Gavin and Ethan Boliver, Ella Waske, Claire, Nash and Libby Routh, Celina Livingston, Charlotte and Madelyn Ray and Hayden, Rylie, Skylar, and Myles Clarke. Stepchildren and stepgrandchildren: Heather Wright, Josie (Forrest) Blythe, Laura Wright and Kathryn Rozanek, Clay (Amber), Brantley and Delaney Neas, Brody Neas and fiancée Kylee Smith, several nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Memorials are to the Ellston United Methodist Church.

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Laurie Fekete - February 15, 1971 - January 28, 2024

Departed: 01/28/2024 (Mount Ayr)

Obituary Preview: Laurel Lea (Griffeth) Fekete, was born February 15, 1971, to James Warren Griffeth and Mary Ethel (Foreman) Griffeth, in Red Oak, IA. She passed away peacefully at her son’s home in Mount Ayr on January 28th, 2024 surrounded by her family.

Laurie married Erwin Fekete, February 18, 1989, and they were the parents of two children Brandy Scott and Ashley Rene’.

She lived most of her life in Red Oak before moving to Mount Ayr. She enjoyed spending time with her family. She especially loved being a grandmother. She loved traveling, listening to Elvis, and was an avid teddy bear collector.

Laurie was preceded in death by her parents James & Mary, brother Thomas, her beloved daughter Ashley and father-in-law Robert Houtchens.

She is survived by her husband Erwin, son Brandy (Cyndi), granddaughters Charlotte & Eleanor, mother-in-law Elisabeth Houtchens, cousins Sherry Johnson, Angie Chapman, Daniel Foreman, brothers-in-law Lynn Houtchens, Robert (Becky) Houtchens, Glenn Houtchens, Mary (Wesley) Steele, Lisa (Patrick) Edgett, sisters-in-law Brenda (Marvin) Scott and Linda Smith, numerous nieces and nephews, and friends.

Memorials are to the family.

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Joseph Murphy - June 08, 1943 - January 17, 2024

Departed: 01/17/2024 (Mount Ayr)

Obituary Preview: Joseph Mark Murphy was born June 8, 1943, in Blue Earth, MN to the parents of Wallace and Mary Veronica (Guerber) Murphy. He was welcomed home by brothers, Edwin and Michael then was later joined by Kathleen, Patrick and Stephen.

Joseph grew up on a farm and went to catholic school in Blue Earth until the family moved to a farm outside of Fairmont, MN in 1957. During school, Joseph was active in the FFA judging team, choir, quartet, barbershop quartet and sang numerous solos for various events until he graduated from Fairmont High School in 1961.

After graduation he worked various jobs while helping on the family farm. In 1965, Joseph met Linda (Krumwiede) and they wed on April 20, 1967. Throughout their marriage, Joseph and Linda welcomed Melanie Lin, Jared Joseph and Justin Steven.

During the early years of his marriage, he worked at Artsway as a welder and then transitioned to a truck driver, delivering machinery over the road, taking him to 48 states and 5 providences in Canada. In 1977 he bought his own truck and went on to work for Acelines over the road. In 1983 he moved to Mount Ayr and became the local hog buyer until 1997, when the company moved Joe and Linda to Belmond, IA. They were able to move back to Maloy, IA upon his retirement in 2003.

After retirement, he still enjoyed driving truck, hauling grain for Dan King, hauling rock for Mike Schaefer and driving for Ringgold Rock until he finally decided it was time to actually retire.

In retirement he enjoyed woodworking, gardening, NASCAR, taking trips, going for drives and spending time with his grandchildren. His grandchildren include Wyatt (Payton) Jackson, Rhett Murphy, Zach Murphy, Hannah Jackson, Ayla Murphy and Kaley Murphy.

Joseph passed away January 17, 2024. He was preceded in death by parents, Wallace and Mary Veronica Murphy, in-laws Arlo and Anna Mae Krumwiede, brothers Edwin Murphy, Patrick Murphy and Stephen Murphy, and sisters-in-law Charlotte Murphy and Mary Murphy.

Those left to cherish his memory include his wife Linda Murphy of Mount Ayr, IA; daughter Melanie (Kevin) Jackson; son Jared (Leslie) Murphy; son Justin (Jessica) Murphy; in-laws Lance and Leann Krumwiede of Estherville, IA; brother Michael Murphy of Fairmont, MN; sister Kathleen McGowan of Fairmont, MN; sister-in-law Prudence Murphy of Fairmont, MN; sister-in-law Bonnie Murphy of Mankato, MN; grandchildren, many nieces and nephews and friends.

There will be an open visitation held at St Joseph Catholic Church in Mount Ayr on Monday, January 22 from 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM with the family present from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM. A Rosary will be recited at 6:00 PM.

A memorial fund has been established in his name.

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Clint Kniep - June 29, 1968 - January 16, 2024

Departed: 01/16/2024 (Mount Ayr)

Obituary Preview: Clinton Earl Kniep was born on June 29, 1968, in Creston to Donna Moore and Ron Kniep. Clint was “somewhat welcomed” home by older sisters Diane and Karla. We say somewhat welcomed because oldest sister Diane loved having a baby brother and defended him to the death. While middle sister, Karla loved him, but would have been happy not to have this newest addition disturb the “perfect” family she had. Clint was born early and was a very small baby, but he made up for that in the years to come. He grew so much because of the love that surrounded him and the love he had to give.

As a child he was always wreaking havoc and going on adventures with his best friends and neighbors, Chuck and Doug Williams. He had an imaginary friend, Dean, whom he blamed everything on. “Dean did it!” He rode his bike up and down main street of Bridgewater and loved going to the Bridgewater station for pop and peanuts. He would go to Doris’ store in Bridgewater and charge snacks for all of his friends and himself to his dad’s account. He would often stop at his grandparents’ house on main street in Bridgewater and he loved coming to Clearfield to spend time with his cousins and grandparents there. He grew up with cousin Lester Elliott – raised more as his brother than cousin. In high school, Clint moved to Clearfield and began attending Diagonal High school. He credits the friends he made there and Coach Dennis Tassel for turning him into the man he was today. He loved all activities and was active in basketball and baseball and the class plays while he was in high school.

After high school, he attended one year at Southwestern Community College (to become an art teacher), and he helped coach basketball and baseball at Diagonal. He did this for many years. He played slow pitch softball, league basketball and golf (lots and lots of golf). Later he moved back to Greenfield and worked at Cardinal glass before eventually starting work on the Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad and moving back to Diagonal.

In December of 1997 he took Shaun Hayse out on their first date, proposed to her in September and they were married March 20, 1999. Much to the chagrin of Clint they lived on a farm east of Redding which he complained was too far from the golf course. The light of Clint’s world were his twins, Jillian and Tessa, who were born August 23, 2004. Clint loved everything about being their daddy and he was the first on the floor with them to play tea party or dress up. He coached them in t-ball and basketball, and was the loudest one cheering in the stands, sometimes getting mad at Shaun for yelling “too loudly.” He was a fierce competitor, but an even fiercer advocate. He was loyal to a fault and always tried to find the good in others.

When Clint and Shaun built their home in Mount Ayr, closer to the golf course, he opened his doors for everyone. He loved hosting and cooking. He thought he was a better cook than Shaun (and probably was thanks to his Grandma Eileen), so Shaun let him think that and he did most of it with her taking care of the baking and dishes. He loved to host his friends to play cards or watch the Hawkeyes.

The twin’s senior year when they got open campus, he enjoyed having a houseful for lunch. He often complained about the grocery bill, but he wouldn’t have had it any other way. He savored every moment with them – often texting Shaun about the antics and the funny stories he heard and saw at lunch. He adopted many kids throughout the years, and he made sure that they knew they always had a place in our home and a meal to come home to.

His world were his girls though, and he would do anything to make them happy. Shopping trips, watching endless plays when Shaun was directing, trips to Good Vibes with Tessa, cattle shows with Jillian, laying down with Tessa each night before bed, watching games with Jillian or movies with Shaun and taking her out to eat, Clint was always there for them all. His love was big and the hole he has left is enormous.

Clint passed away January 16, 2024. He was preceded in death by his father Ron Kniep, nephew Ben Dodge, mother-in-law Katie Hayse, brother-in-law, Randy Long, and nephew Jon Ecker.

Clint is survived by his wife of nearly 25 years Shaun, daughters Jillian and Tessa, mother Donna and Keith Moore, sisters Diane Long and Karla (Nic) Denney, step-mother Becky Kniep and step-brothers Scott, Rob, Todd and Tim and their families, step-brother Blake Moore and family, step-sister Tammy LaFratte and family, father-in-law Preston Hayse (friend Bobbi Bainum), brother-in-law Peter and Sally Hayse, nieces Amy Long and Heather Ecker, nephews Jason, Jeremy (Hailey) Long, Josh (Paige) Hancock, Nathan (Hayley) Hogue, Kyle and Tyler (Sharon) Hayse, great-nieces Madison Ecker, Rylann Long, Ivy Bessinine and Josie Long, great-nephews Hayden Ecker, Tyler Rexroth, Booker Hogue, and Brooks Hancock, special family friends Todd and Angie Glendenning, Hannah (Nathan) Weeda and Blair Glendenning, uncles, aunts, cousins, and many extended family members and friends who became family.

Memorials are in his name to be decided.

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Sam England - November 22, 1947 - January 14, 2024

Departed: 01/14/2024 (Mount Ayr)

Obituary Preview: Samuel George England was born at home on November 22, 1947 to Joseph and Jennie (Winslow) England. He was the middle child of 2 sisters Karla and Eileen. Sam grew up on the family farm west and south of Clearfield. He attended Clearfield Community School until his Junior year.

In 1965 he married Diana Walkup and to this marriage a son was born, Alan Bryce on August 7, 1965. They later divorced. Sam then married Lana Hanson and to this marriage 2 sons were born, Kirk Allen on January 23, 1968 and Clinton Joe Hans on August 7, 1970. They later divorced. Sam married Reeta Beggs in 1983 to this marriage 2 children, Christopher Lee August 3, 1980 and finally a daughter Jennie Pearl on November 28, 1986. They later divorced. Sam earned his G.E.D and later a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology. He spent his working years farming until the 80’s. He was a jack of all trades from working at Barkers Implement to driving truck for Brandon Larson and a short time as a counselor at a boys home in Ft. Dodge. He also had obtained his Pilot’s License, although we think this one was just for fun!! There is no way to put into words Sam’s love of guns and hunting! From buying, trading, collecting, shooting and reloading ammo no one could keep up and right up until his last days he could tell you every gun in his house and their location! Sundays were for shooting and target practice and he was always willing to teach anyone who wanted to learn! We wish we could include all the stories about Sam and the stories he would tell but that would quickly become a novel! Sam will always be remembered for his ornery side smile/smirk and his ability to tell a story, whether it be a hunting, beer drinking, or a Big Foot story they were always never ending!

Sam passed away on January 14, 2024. He was preceded in death by his parents Joseph and Jennie; son Alan Bryce and brother Hank Briggs. Left to cherish his memory sister Karla (Bill) Livingston, Clearfield, IA, sister Eileen (Steve) Irvine, Tarkio, MO; sons Kirk and Clint, Red Oak, IA; son Chris (Angie Cole) England, Clearfield, IA; daughter Jennie (Terry Mckinney) England, Creston, IA; grandchildren Keaton, Corbyn and Kolby England and Kenna, Kyler, Kenzie, Kennedy Castelan; nieces, nephews, cousins, and countless friends!

Memorials are to the family to be decided.

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Jeff Hash - March 15, 1958 - January 13, 2024

Departed: 01/13/2024 (Mount Ayr)

Obituary Preview: Jeffrey Lynn Hash, age 65, of Leon, passed away Saturday, January 13, 2024, at MercyOne Hospital in Des Moines, Iowa. Jeff was born March 15, 1958, in Leon, Iowa. He was the beloved son of Molly Ivins. Jeff attended school at Central Decatur through his 11th grade. Jeff had a passion for driving semis, and he worked for various companies throughout his entire life. About all truck drivers have a C.B. ‘handle’ and Jeff went by “The Gambler.” Trucking led him to meet the love of his life and best friend, Teena, while she was working as a waitress at the Feed Bunk restaurant. Jeff and Teena were united in marriage on April 23, 1983. To this union one child was born, Amber Sue. Jeff received his GED in 1990. In May of 2006, Jeff began working at Ideal Ready Mix driving a mixer. A year later, Jeff became the plant manager. He was the “Ideal Man”!

Jeff loved spending time with family and friends. He enjoyed spending time sitting on the porch, gardening, tinkering in his garage, and mowing his yard. Jeff and Teena enjoyed camping and vacationing with family. Sunday dinners were enjoyed and shared. So many memories were made during these times. One of Jeff’s favorite things was spending time with his grandkids and any friends they brought with them. He was a grandpa to all of them and the past daycare kids.

Jeff was preceded in death by his mother, Molly Louise Ivins, father & mother-in-law Melvin & Judy Doolittle, and brother-in-law Luis Poblete.

Survivors include his wife of 40 years, Teena Hash; daughter Amber Richards & husband Wes; grandchildren Emma Richards and Jeffrey Richards; beloved dog Pearl; sister Rebecca Poblete; sisters-in-law Debbie (Rod) Holmes and Penni Hewlett (Dana Hall); nieces & nephews Chad Holmes, Ben Hewlett, Emily Poblete, Travis Holmes, Aric Hewlett, Paul Poblete; lifelong friend Darwin Gere; many friends. Also surviving is Kala Leeper and her kids to whom he was her “Iowa dad”.

Memorials are in his name to be decided.

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Connor Swank - January 26, 2001 - January 11, 2024

Departed: 01/11/2024 (Mount Ayr)

Obituary Preview: Connor Dean Swank was born January 26, 2001, at the Greater Regional Hospital in Creston Iowa, to Virginia Lee (Paris) and Eric Dean Swank. He was their first baby boy and then Connor would help welcome home Korbin Lee and both boys welcomed Zachary Joseph Lyle. He loved his siblings and would do anything for them.

Connor attended Mount Ayr School from kindergarten on and graduated with the Class of 2019. Throughout his high school years, he loved being on the football team, and being on the bowling team where he excelled with many achievements throughout his career and many other activities. Connor attended Indian Hills College in Ottumwa, Iowa straight out of graduating high school. He then graduated college in 2021 with an Associate of Applied Science degree in Diesel Mechanics Technology.

After graduation he began working for John Deere in Leon, Iowa as well as Grand River Cattle Company. Connor was currently working at Akins in Creston, Iowa and was being accepted into BNSF out of Creston, Iowa.

Connor met his love, Kayla Doty in May of 2023. Their relationship progressed and she moved to Iowa from Illinois to be with him. They began building their life together in Diagonal, Iowa where they found their first place together. Starting to plan their future, they recently found out that they would soon be parents (Due in September 2024).

If you knew Connor, he would do anything for anybody and just like his grandpa, he didn’t know a stranger. Connor gained a couple nicknames, one being Conman, he gained this nickname from his football coach David and the nickname of Hoss. People called him by this name because of his big heart full of love and was so caring and just a big ol teddy bear all the way around. His smile was so contagious and so so ornery. You could tell if he was up to no good just by that smile. Connor had many hobbies. He liked going deer hunting with extended family and friends. He enjoyed spending his free time on men’s bowling league, working, fishing, tinkering with his truck or “HOE”/Tahoe as he called it, helping either one of his brothers when they needed him, (or at least he thought they needed his help), and being with his friends. He also enjoyed time with his family, checking on his grandparents, making sure his brothers were in check, and always gave a helping hand when in need (and even when it was not needed).

Connor left this short life here on Earth on the early morning of January 11, 2024, at the young age of 22 years, just shy of his 23rd birthday. Welcoming him into heaven with open arms; Grandpa Elvin Swank, Grandpa Dean Allen, Aunt Jo/Uncle Ed, as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins, and extended family and a few friends.

He is survived by his parents Eric and Virginia Swank; brothers Korbin Swank (fiancé Bianca Beamgard) and Zachary Swank; both Grandmas Cathy Swank and Pat Paris; fiancé Kayla Doty and baby Swank; aunt Audrey (Clint) Whittington; cousins Trevor Shelley, Alexandrea (Brice) Phelps, Zoey Shelley, Hayley Whittington, Hope Whittington, Harper Whittington; aunt Jami Wallace and cousins Brysen (Halee) and girls and Brenden Hightshoe; sister Samantha (Matt) Dyer and son Carter; with many other aunts, uncles, cousins and extended family.

Memorials are to the family to help with expenses.

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Linda Waugh - November 03, 1960 - January 11, 2024

Departed: 01/11/2024 (Mount Ayr)

Obituary Preview: Linda Jo Lear Waugh, daughter of Robert Lee & Gwendola (Fletchall) McGrew, was born November 3, 1960, in Missouri. Linda graduated from Hopkins, Missouri High School. Throughout her life, Linda pursued her love of art and painting beautiful pictures. She was a fantastic artist and got her Masters in Art. She was accepted by Hallmark to do artwork for their cards. She was always looking for art projects. Linda loved going to thrift stores and bought lots of her art supplies from there. She also loved going to yard sales.

Linda was the mother of two children: Jan Wright and Randy Lear. She was grandma to Alex, Jason, and Halie. Linda has always been an animal lover. Jan & Randy remember having pets growing up.

Linda met Eugene Waugh online and they were married on December 26, 2006. Gene remembers when they were much younger, Linda and he met in a park in Grant City. The other boys were picking on Gene and calling him names. Linda approached Gene to try to figure out why the boys were picking on him. Linda and Gene had a fun, loving relationship. Linda would misplace something, and Gene enjoyed picking on her as they looked for it. Linda put a glass of milk under the sink when she was getting something from under it, then forgot what she had done with it: Gene found it later. Linda had a great sense of humor. She loved her grandkids and spending time with them. She also loved spending time with her husband Gene.

Linda passed away January 11, 2024. She was preceded in death by her father Robert (Bob) McGrew, her mother Gwendola (Gwen) McGrew, and her brother Curtis McGrew.

Those left to cherish her memory include her husband Eugene Waugh of Mount Ayr; daughter Jan Wright of Merriam, Kansas and her son Alex; son Randy Lear of Mount Ayr and his children Jason and Halie; brother Steve (Kathy) McGrew of Grant City, MO; several cousins and other relatives and friends.

Memorials are to the family.

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Leola Dolecheck - August 14, 1932 - January 10, 2024

Departed: 01/10/2024 (Mount Ayr)

Obituary Preview: Leola Marie Dolecheck was born August 14, 1932, to Clarence and Irma Loomis and welcomed brother Donald to the family.

Leola grew up on a farm and attended school near Thayer, Iowa. She met Ivan Frank Dolecheck through his cousin and fell in love. The two were married on October 7, 1949, and celebrated 72 years of marriage before Ivan’s passing in 2022. Four children were born to this union: Wayne Ivan, Cecil Allen, Linda Marie, and Roger LeRoy. The two farmed in Ringgold County their entire marriage; first on various farmland near Goose Pond corner until 1964, when they purchased what is now part of Dolecheck Farms near Blackmore corner.

Strong in her faith, Leola and Ivan attended the First Christian Church in Mount Ayr until moving to Blackmore corner. They then transferred their membership to Ellston United Methodist Church. Leola was an active member there, joining in all their activities. She served her Lord on numerous Methodist Conference Councils both local and conference wide and filled in as a lay minister when needed spreading love and laughter.

As a beloved wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother, Leola cherished spending time with family. Attending and watching her grandchildren in all their school activities brought her great joy. After the family chores were finished playing cards, putting puzzles together and reading books were favorite pastimes. Leola also loved to draw and paint on canvas, saw blades and wood, giving away much of her work to family. Leola served in her community as a member of Ringgold Farm Bureau.

Large family dinners were always concluded with fresh baked pies Leola made. She loved to collect and try new recipes. Tucked into one of her recipe boxes, written in her own hand, was her recipe for life. “Start with a loaf of joy-add a dash of kindness, season with pinch of salt, to live as salt of the earth. Sprinkle a lot of Jesus love, add a handful of forgiveness, cover with peace, serve on a bed of faith, melted in a plate of salvation.”

The Lord peacefully welcomed Leola on January 10, 2024. In addition to her parents and husband Ivan, Leola was predeceased by brother Donald; eldest son Wayne; and daughter-in-law Becky.

Dolecheck survivors include son Cecil and his wife Patti of Mount Ayr, daughter Linda Crandall and husband Jeff of Kingwood, Texas, and son Roger and wife Linda of Ellston; ten grandchildren Eric Dolecheck, Josie Johnson (Al), Darin Dolecheck (Darla), Kari Lasnau (Chad), Hannah Seydewitz (Peter), Brad Crandall (Jessica), Trevor Anderson, Kyle Dolecheck, Kirsten Martin (Ben), and Bailey Anderson; fifteen great grandchildren Kaitlyn and Becca Dolecheck; Becky & Colby Johnson; Joel & Jana Dolecheck; Addison, Benjamin and Camden Lasnau; Audrey & Evan Seydewitz; and Brynn, Nora, Marin and Bodie Crandall.

Memorials are to the Ellston United Methodist Church.

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Jerry L. Cooper - May 27, 1938 - January 08, 2024

Departed: 01/08/2024 (Mount Ayr)

Obituary Preview: Jerry Lee Cooper was born May 27, 1938, on a farm north of Tingley, IA, to Roy and Agnes Cooper. He joined sisters Imogene and Beverly, brother Harold; followed by sister Sherry.

Jerry attended country schools near Kellerton and Blackmore Corner before going to Mount Ayr Community School. Between his Sophomore and Junior year, he went to Wentworth Military Academy in Lexington, Missouri, where he graduated high school. From there, he joined the U.S. Marine Corps. After his discharge, Jerry returned to Iowa.

On May 8, 1971, Jerry married Judith Kay Lindsey. To this union, son Jeffery Lee and daughter Julie Kay, were born.

Jerry and Judy made their home a few miles south of Tingley. Farming and raising animals were in Jerry’s blood and something he enjoyed until his late seventies, at which point, he let son-in-law Jason put cows in with his and handing things over; but still giving his input along the way.

Jerry had a strong work ethic and believed if you worked hard, you could play hard. He enjoyed reading books and trips to the Des Moines Civic Center. Jerry spent his last few years at home with the endless help of his wife, children, and caring neighbors.

Jerry enjoyed watching from his porch the neighbors rake and bale hay; counting and writing down how many they got off each cutting. Judy took him on evening rides to check everyone’s crops and to see his dog. He was a man of black & white; you always knew where he stood. He didn’t have a grey area. What he said, he meant and that was the end of the conversation. He loved his family and would do anything for them.

On November 27, 2023, he entered Clearview Home where he departed life on January 8, 2024. He was preceded in death by his parents; in-laws Joe & Vera Lindsey; sisters Imogene (Jim) McMahon and Beverly (H.B.) Michael; brother Harold (Phyllis) Cooper; and grandson Triston Ackley.

Jerry is survived by his wife Judy of home; children Julie (Jason) Ackley of Tingley, IA and Jeff (Julie) Cooper of Grand Junction, IA; grandchild Hanna Ackley of Des Moines, IA; step grandchildren Mae (Burt) Davis, Allison (Johnny) Hamilton, all of Jefferson, IA; 5 step-greatgrandchildren; sister Sherry (Tom) O'Brien of Mount Ayr, IA; nieces, nephews and friends.

Per Jerry’s wishes, he will be cremated with a private family burial at a later date.

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Pre-Planning Options

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Personalized Memorials and Tributes

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Comfortable Facilities

The facilities at Armstrong Funeral Homes are designed to provide families with a serene and accommodating environment. Visitation rooms, a chapel for services, and reception areas are all part of the funeral home. Their aim is to create a comforting atmosphere where families and friends can gather to pay respects and share memories. The décor and furnishings are chosen to offer a sense of peace and tranquility during the services and gatherings.

Caring Staff

Perhaps the most vital aspect of Armstrong Funeral Homes is the caring and dedicated staff. Their team is made up of individuals who are not only skilled in funeral planning but are also deeply sensitive to the emotional difficulties that accompany the loss of a loved one. They are there to guide families through each step of the funeral or memorial process, ensuring that all needs are met with the highest level of professionalism and empathy. The staff's unwavering support is a cornerstone of their service to the community.

Ongoing Support and Grief Resources

Armstrong Funeral Homes recognizes that the grieving process does not end with the funeral. To assist those in mourning, they offer ongoing support and a repository of grief resources. This can include referral to local support groups, access to educational materials, and follow-ups to ensure that those left behind are not struggling alone. Caring for the community means extending a helping hand well beyond the services they provide, which is a testament to Armstrong's deep commitment.

Community Commitment and Involvement

The connection between Armstrong Funeral Homes and the community of Mount Ayr is rooted in a long-standing tradition of care and involvement. The funeral home actively participates in community events and supports local causes. Armstrong believes in building and maintaining relationships with the residents of Mount Ayr and the surrounding regions, reinforcing their role not just as a service provider but as a valuable community ally during life's most challenging moments.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written announcement of a person's death, typically published in newspapers and on online platforms. It serves not only as a notice to inform the public of the individual's passing but also as a way to remember and honor the life of the deceased. Obituaries often include a brief biography, information about the family, funeral or memorial service details, and can also include a photo.

Who writes an obituary?

An obituary is usually written by a close family member, friend, or a designated writer at a newspaper. Some people also choose to write their own obituaries as part of their end-of-life planning.

What should be included in an obituary?

An obituary typically includes the full name of the deceased, dates of birth and death, a brief overview of their life such as education, career, achievements, and interests, names of surviving family members, details of the funeral or memorial service, and sometimes a request for charitable donations in lieu of flowers.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary widely depending on the platform it will be published on and the amount of detail the family wishes to include. Newspaper obituaries might be shorter due to space and cost constraints, while online obituaries often allow for more extensive tributes.

Is there a standard format for writing obituaries?

While there is no strict format, obituaries commonly start with the announcement of death, followed by biographical details, family information, service details, and end with special messages or requests. However, the format can be tailored to reflect the personality and life of the deceased.

How is an obituary different from a death notice?

An obituary is a detailed tribute to the deceased's life and typically includes biographical information, whereas a death notice is a shorter, more formal announcement of death that may not include much detail about the person's life or achievements.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper or online platform?

To submit an obituary, you can contact the newspaper or online platform directly. Most have specific guidelines and forms for submission, and many charge a fee based on the length of the obituary and any included photographs.

Can I include a photo with an obituary?

Yes, photos are often included with obituaries to help readers connect with the deceased. Check the submission guidelines of the publication for any requirements regarding photo size and quality.

What is the usual timeframe for publishing an obituary after a death?

Obituaries are usually published within a few days to a week after the death, though the timing can vary based on the publication schedule and the family's wishes.

Can obituaries be published online only?

Yes, many online platforms specialize in publishing obituaries, and some people opt to have obituaries published online only, which can be a more cost-effective and interactive option.

Is it necessary to include cause of death in an obituary?

Including the cause of death is a personal choice and not a requirement. Some families prefer to include this information for clarity or to bring awareness to certain medical conditions or issues, while others may choose to keep it private.

How can we make an obituary more personal?

Incorporate anecdotes, personal stories, unique traits, and significant accomplishments to reflect the personality of the deceased. Quotes from the individual or family members can also add a personal touch.

What if we don't want to announce the funeral details publicly?

It's perfectly acceptable to omit funeral details from an obituary if the service will be private or for family only. You may choose to state that the service will be private or simply not include any details at all.

How do we handle corrections in published obituaries?

Contact the publication as soon as possible to request a correction. Most newspapers and online platforms are willing to correct significant errors in obituaries.

Can we mention a charity for donations in an obituary?

Yes, it is quite common to include a preferred charity in the obituary, asking for donations in lieu of sending flowers. This can honor the deceased's memory in a way that is meaningful to their values or life's work.

How can an obituary be a tool for genealogical research?

Obituaries often contain valuable information such as dates of birth and death, names of family members, places of residence, and biographical details, which can be instrumental in constructing family trees and understanding family history.

What should we do after the obituary is published?

After publication, keep a copy for your records and consider sending copies to distant family members and friends. If the obituary is online, you might share the link via social media or through email.

Is it appropriate to include a poem or quote in an obituary?

Including a poem, quote, or scripture that was meaningful to the deceased can be a fitting way to add a personal and reflective touch to an obituary.

What is the best way to honor a loved one who lived a simple, quiet life in their obituary?

Even for someone who lived a modest life, an obituary can highlight personal qualities, relationships, hobbies, and the impact they had on their family and community. Honesty and affection in recounting small but significant details of their life can be deeply moving and honoring.

Can I write my own obituary ahead of time?

Yes, many people choose to write their own obituaries as part of their pre-planning. This can ensure that your life is celebrated in a way that aligns with your wishes and can also alleviate the burden on family members during a time of grief.

What if our family cannot afford to publish an obituary?

If cost is a concern, consider a shorter death notice, or look for free online platforms where you can publish an obituary at no cost. Some community newspapers also offer free or low-cost options for local residents.