The Life of MARLYS L MEAD
Marlys Mead, 80, died peacefully July 10, 2012 at Mercy Hospice in Johnston. She was born in Waverly, IA, on February 8, 1932. She fought a brave battle with ovarian cancer for three years, but truly died from a broken heart. Marlys is survived by her three children, Michele Mead (Cindy Williams), Sherri Hunt (David), and Tim Mead; grandchildren, Jason and Abbie; brother, Paul Scougal; sisters-in-law, Grace Mead-Rickman (Marlin) and Pat Mead; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Albert and Margaret Scougal and, just 10 weeks ago, by her loving husband of nearly 62 years, Shirley Mead.
Marlys worked for Ford Motor Company in her early years and then took on the full-time job of Mom. She later worked for the University Children's Dentistry as office manager.
Marlys had many talents, tending her flower gardens, sewing, stamping, and crafting. Just three days before her death she was teaching Michele to embroider. At the center of all of Marlys' activity was her love for her family. One of her favorite activities during the holidays was making cookies with her granddaughter, Abbie. In their retirement, she and Shirley enjoyed spending time together, camping throughout Iowa as members of the Good Sams Camping Club. Some of her special camping stories included the trips when grandson, Jason, joined them.
Marlys had a strong Catholic faith that she leaned on for comfort and guidance; she truly lived the gospel of tolerance and understanding. She was a charter member of St. Mary of Nazareth Church. As devastating as it has been to lose parents so close together, we are comforted in knowing that Marlys has joined her beloved husband, Shirley, in heaven and that they are eternally at peace together.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, July 14, 2012 at St. Mary of Nazareth Catholic Church. Burial will be at Highland Memory Gardens Cemetery. Her family will receive friends from 5-7 p.m. on Friday, July 13, at Iles Funeral Homes-Westover Chapel with a Rosary following the visitation. A special thank you to Dr. Deb Turner and Deb Schnoor and the Mercy Hospice staff for their exceptional care.
Memorial contributions may be given to the Society of St. Vincent de Paul.
