Avonda Row

Avonda Lynn "Grammy" Row, 59, passed away on April 18, 2025, in Ankeny, Iowa. Her life was a testament to faith, love, determination, and selflessness.
Born on August 5, 1965, Avonda grew up with a lively spirit and a heart full of benevolence. During her school years in Arlington, Texas, she was an active member of the Lamar High School marching band and excelled in rifle flipping-an early sign of her energy and enthusiasm that would define her life.
Avonda's professional journey reflected her deep commitment to service and community. She worked as a bookkeeper for nine years at Highland Memory Gardens, building and curating the way that they still run their bookkeeping to this day. And, she held a part-time role at Hy-Vee as a cashier, always bringing an upbeat attitude to every interaction. Earlier in her career, she served as a bank teller where she developed a special love for customer service and data entry. While raising her children, she worked overnight shifts at Walmart as both a cashier and processor of all cash drawers-balancing work and family with unwavering dedication.
One of her greatest career callings came through caring for children. For ten years, Avonda ran an in-home daycare that became a nurturing space for many young lives. She also provided childcare at the church nursery in Ankeny on Sunday mornings and weekday evenings. Her funny, nurturing presence left an indelible mark on countless families.
A woman of deep Christian faith, Avonda lived by the principles of love, kindness, and inclusion. She believed that everyone should be welcomed in church and carried this belief into every aspect of her life. She donated her time and skills to anyone who needed it and would drop everything she was doing to help a neighbor, church member, or stranger. Her faith sustained her through life's challenges and inspired those around her.
For 23 years, Avonda shared the word of God through puppetry alongside her best friend Carrie in their puppet group called Visual Scriptures. Their performances brought joy, laughter, and spiritual connection to audiences young and old-a creative expression of Avonda's devotion to spreading positive messages.
She also found joy in crafting and had fond memories of playing softball during her youth. Whether through hobbies or acts of service, Avonda poured herself into everything she did with her quirky energy and thoughtful care.
Avonda was the proud mother of four wonderful children: Erica, Laura, Stephen, and Ryan. Each one unique in their own way, they were united by the love their mother gave so freely. In her final months, all four moved closer to be near her-visiting often and surrounding her with comfort. They credit their strength and character to the example she set throughout their lives.
She shared 25 years with her husband until their paths diverged when God called time on that chapter. Through it all, Avonda remained steadfast-attentive, unwavering, generous beyond measure-and always thinking of others before herself.
She is remembered lovingly by her children; by Carrie, her best friend; by Johnnie, her mom; and by many other family members whose lives were touched by her warmth.
Avonda Lynn "Grammy" Row leaves behind a legacy rooted in authenticity, zestfulness, resilience, and unconditional love. May her memory bring comfort to those who knew her and continue to inspire acts of compassion for generations to come.