Mary Lou Yoder was born Feb. 7, 1939, in Culp, Arkansas, the daughter of Walter and Alice (Seawright) Freeman. She graduated from Iowa Mennonite School (now Hillcrest Academy) in 1956. On Sept. 1, 1957, Mary was united in marriage to Arlin Yoder. Arlin and Mary Lou served as missionaries in Brazil for 17 years. She enjoyed her continued connections with her friends she met during her time in Brazil. Mary Lou was an Insurance Agent for Bankers Life until retiring in 2004. She was a member of the West Union Mennonite Church. She enjoyed quilting and spending time with her family.
Mary Lou passed away Sunday, April 21, 2024, at Colonial Manor of Amana at the age of 85.
She is survived by two sons: Douglas (Leann) of Claremore, Oklahoma and Kevin (Rebecca) of Hills; five grandchildren: Christina (Stephen) Arruda, Laura (Chris) Paul, Nathan (Katherine) Yoder, Leah (Jon) Arnold, Zach (Rachel) Yoder; 16 great-grandchildren, with another on the way; a brother: Claude ( AnnaMae) Freeman; and a sister: Ruth Franklin.
Mary Lou was preceded in death by her parents; husband; three sisters; three brothers; and three great-grandsons: Simon, Noah, and Henry.
A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, April 27, 2024, at West Union Mennonite Cemetery near Wellman. Yoder-Powell Funeral Home in Kalona is caring for Mary Lou and her family. Messages and tributes may be directed to www.powellfuneralhomes.com.
Memorial contributions may be made to: Iowa City Hospice, Inc. 1526 Sycamore St. Iowa City, IA 52240.
