Barbara Jean McAfee

Barbara Jean McAfee (Edgerton, Engstrom), age 89, passed away after five years living with stage 5 kidney failure. She went to her heavenly home on April 18th, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. She was a wonderful mother who was always there when we needed her. Her grandchildren brought such joy to her life. She was the heart of the home and family. She was the mother of Donald (Mark), Rich, Rod (Julie), and Dianna (Rick) Barb was married 15 years to her soulmate, LaVerne Elroy Engstrom, who preceded her in death at the age of 32. She then married Bob McAfee who preceded her in death in 2023. Barbara is survived by her 4 children, 8 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren, and 2 great-great grandchildren whom she cherished and prayed for daily. Barb was a caring stepmother to 3 stepchildren ToniJo, Bob Jr. (Julie), and Laura (Lee). Those who were privileged to have living great grandparents know that our oldest relatives grew up in a different world. Barb was a hard worker who learned about survival and resilience as a child during the great depression.
Barb was born on January 20th, 1935, in Polk City, Iowa, to Mary Ellen Edgerton (Zachary) and William Robert Edgerton. She attended Riverside Elementary in the one room school and then went to Polk City School. Barb was lead cook for American Federal cafeteria for over 15 years. She mastered the art of baking apple dumplings. Barb was blessed with a green thumb and knew the tricks for growing vegetables and flowers. She was a true animal lover, which included raising horses, dogs, cats, guinea pigs, rabbits, goats, and even an indoor potty-trained pig, Penny. Barbara was a strong believing Christian and loved the Lord. She was faithful to her church family and very active in her service to her church. Barb went on mission trips, taught Sunday school/Awanas, and mentored many. We will miss her as a mighty prayer warrior and generous supporter of missions.
Services will be held at her home church, Heartland Church 1212 NW 36th St., Ankeny, IA 50023, on May 6th, 2024, Visitation at 1pm and the Funeral Service at 2 pm. Following the service, the interment will be at Mount Hope Cemetery in Madrid, IA.
While she will be missed by many, we are confident of this very thing, she is in the arms of Jesus, her Savior.
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