Joan Ruth Bailey

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved grandmother, mother, and friend Joan Ruth Bailey, who left us peacefully on August 2nd, 2025, at Norwalk Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. She was 91 years old. A Celebration of Life will be held at New Hope Church in Adel (25712 US-6) on August 23rd from 10:00-11:00, with lunch following the service in the church’s community room. Private burial services will be held with family members on a later date.

Born March 27, 1934, to Glen and Ruth (Rowe) Harms in Dallas County, she became a true matriarch. She was the unwavering leader of our family after the loss of her beloved husband Kenneth Bailey.“Jo-Jo” (one of her many nicknames) was known for her spunky spirit and vibrant personality. She had an infectious energy that sparked joy in everyone around her. Not only was she a dedicated family member, but she was also a social butterfly, always eager to connect with friends and loved ones, sharing stories and laughter.Her active lifestyle kept her engaged with the world; whether she was visiting her job places (WalMart and HyVee) after retiring, tending to her animals at home, or simply enjoying the company of her family. She had a unique ability to speak her mind, offering wisdom and guidance that often came wrapped in humor, love, and a little spitfire.As we gather to celebrate her remarkable life, we remember her strength, her laughter, and the love she freely gave to all of us. Joan Bailey leaves behind a legacy of kindness, resilience, and the importance of family bonds. She will be deeply missed but forever cherished in our hearts.

Those left to cherish her memory include her sons Benny Hutzell and Kip Hutzell, step-sons Dan (Vivian) Bailey and Del (Brenda) Bailey, grandchildren Travis (Stephanie) Hutzell, Shana Bergman, Heather Hammerstad, Ben (Jessie) Hutzell, Delaney Stillman, Kelly Hutzell, Susan (Ruddy) Fransua, Jamie (Gabrielle) Farrington, Gretchen Hutzell, Kennidi (Tucker) Patrick, Cody (Erin) Bailey, Justin Baker, Myranda Putney, and Kenneth Bailey, step-grandchildren Sarah Bailey, Christopher (Michael) Bailey, Christina (Colby) Rowley, Melissa (Clifford) Jensen, Michael Bailey, Michelle Driesen, and Matthew (Cheryl) Bailey, many great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. Joan was preceded in death by her husband Kenneth Bailey, her daughter Robin Bailey, step-son Kenneth D. Bailey, sister Pauline Kinney, brother-in-law Darrell Kinney, and brother Robert Dean Harms.

Special thanks to the nurses and the whole staff at Norwalk Nursing and Rehabilitation Center for their wonderful care of Mom.

Rest in peace, dear Grandma and Mother. Your spirit will live on.