Ella May Young

Ella May Walston Young, 96, passed away on Wednesday, July 23, 2025 at Spurgeon Manor in Dallas Center, Iowa. A Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, August 6th from 2:00-4:00pm at New Hope Church in Adel, Iowa.

Ella May was born on December 7, 1928 in Dallas County, Iowa near Adel, to Mary Lee Breech and Walter Walston. First attending country schools near Panther and Ortonville, she then graduated from Adel High School in 1946. Afterwards she earned a teaching certificate from Simpson College and taught at Galva, DeSoto, Exira, and Minburn, as well as working at Northwestern Bell Telephone. She was a member of Adel Women's Club, Friends of the Library, and loved attending New Hope Church.

Her marriage to James Leon Young on March 24, 1951 in Perry, Iowa during an ice storm lasted 69 wonderful years.

There was always a soft spot in her heart for all animals, especially cats, whether in person, or watching them on her computer. Feeding the birds and squirrels was a favorite hobby, as well as reading, gardening, ceramics, and cooking, always ready to welcome family for Sunday dinner. Some of the best times included a cup of coffee with friends playing cards, board games, and reminiscing the good old days. She always enjoyed a good laugh and was known for her sweet smile.

Ella May is survived by her children Dan (Carolyn) Young, Donna Stark, Dave (Kathy) Young: grandchildren Keely (Kallen) Moore, Sage (Rebecca) Stevens, Sarah Cantrell (Jim Harris), Levi (Amber) Stevens, Chris (Stacy) Cantrell; and great-grandchildren Lynlee, Quincy, Bridger, Sam, Emma, Anna, Emma, Maggie, Owen, Evy, Ally, and Theo.

She was preceded in death by her husband James Leon Young, siblings Dorris Mefford, and Charles "Chuck" Walston, and son-in-law Walter W. Stark Jr. Ella May will be laid to rest with a private burial at Greenwood Cemetery in Minburn, Iowa.

Special thanks to Spurgeon Manor for taking such good care of our mom. In lieu of flowers, memorials will be made to Ella May's favorite organizations.