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Mary Ann Kenyon, 72, of Creston, died Tuesday, Aug. 27, 2024, at her home in Creston. Celebration of Life Memorial Services to honor Mary Ann’s life will be held 11 a.m. Friday, Sept. 6, at First United Methodist Church in Creston. Services will be livestreamed at a link found under Mary Ann’s obituary page. Pastor Jodi Rushing will officiate. Visitation will be 2 to 7 p.m., with family receiving friends from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 5, at Powers Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks memorials be directed to Greater Connections Childhood Development Center to start a scholarship fund in Mary Ann’s name. The family extends their gratitude to Mary Ann’s care teams and all of her devoted friends and extended Kenyon family. Online condolences may be made at www.powersfh.com.
Mary Ann Kenyon—beloved wife, mother, grandmother and friend––passed away Aug. 27, at her home in Creston after a year-long battle with breast cancer. Surrounded by her family, Mary Ann’s passing leaves a profound void in the lives of those who knew her. Born Dec. 5, 1951, she lived a life marked by creativity, humor, curiosity and immense love.
Mary Ann was a devoted wife to Arnold Oakley “Skip” Kenyon III and a loving mother to her three children: Angela Kenyon of Des Moines and her children, Morgan and Nyah Davis; Joe Kenyon of Creston and his children, Jacqueline and John Oscar Kenyon and Arnold Oakley “Beau” Kenyon IV of Boston, Massachusetts, and his partner, Nathan Venne.
The youngest of five, Mary Ann cherished her large, extended family and often shared fond memories of her late siblings: Shirley Swanson, Bonnie Murphy and Robert “Bobby” Clendenen. She is also survived by her sister, Joyce (Steve) Rovner, their extended family and niece Amy Garbet.
After graduating from Oelwein High School in 1970, Mary Ann earned a bachelor’s degree in early childhood development from Iowa State University in 1975. It was there she met Skip, whom she married Dec. 23, 1972. Mary Ann took great pride in her education and had a lifelong love for learning and teaching. Her home, filled with music, books, art, plants and cherished treasures, reflected her passion for creativity. She instilled in her children values of curiosity, resourcefulness, empathy and love.
Mary Ann’s spirit shone through her quilts, crocheted afghans, cross-stitch projects, gardens and baked goodies. She found joy in life’s small moments and in celebrating birthdays and holidays. Her love for puppies was infectious, raising 11 dogs, the last of whom, Aberdeen, was with her in her final months.