Verdell M. Kelly, 92, of Dows, with loved ones by her side, went home to be with her Savior, Jesus Christ, and reunited with her love, Dennis, on Monday, February 3, 2025. There will be no funeral service, as this was her desire. Woodley Funeral Home and Crematory of Iowa Falls is caring for Verdell and her family. Condolences can be sent to John and Cindy Mandal – 1009 Rowan Rd – Dows, IA 50071.
Verdell was born to Joseph and Leone (Pepper) Hubbell on October 17, 1932, at home in Dows. She attended school at Dows and after graduation, attended Wartburg College to get her teaching degree. Hub (nickname in college) taught first grade at the Popejoy School where Dennis was a senior in high school. Everyone in the family always teased her about dating a senior while being a teacher, but she made it very clear that dating didn’t start until after he graduated.
Verdell and Dennis were united in marriage on August 15, 1954, at the United Methodist Church in Dows. She was active in church and enjoyed being a housewife, mom, and farmer. Verdell was the church secretary for years at The Abundant Life Chapel in Dows and considered the people there to be family. She was also part of the worship team at church. Reading was one of her favorite things and she read her Bible daily, sometimes for hours.
Jesus and her family were the most important part of her life. Her children and grandchildren were always in her thoughts and prayers. Verdell loved much and was loved by many.
Verdell is survived by her children, Marty (Jo) Kelly of Ames and Cindy (John) Mandal of Dows; grandchildren: Heather (Eric) Darland, Jeremy (Christa) Nichols, Devin (Lisa) Kelly, Shane (Chelsea) Kelly; great-grandchildren: Jacob and Haley Darland, Lexi and Clay (Liliana) Nichols, Luke Clark, Tristan Kelly, Charlotte, Felix and Willow Kelly; nieces and nephews.