Jeffery Arthur "Jeff" Stanton

Jeffery Arthur Stanton, age 74, of Des Moines, Iowa, passed away on September 11, 2025, after a valiant battle with cancer and Lewy Body dementia. Jeff was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend.

Jeff was born on November 5, 1950, in Granite City, Illinois, to John and Marilyn Stanton. His family later moved to Des Moines, where he graduated from Roosevelt High School in 1968. He went on to attend the University of Iowa, graduating in 1972 with a degree in Business Administration. After college, Jeff returned to Des Moines, where he began his career with Reichardt's. It was during this time that he met the love of his life, Libby Thornton, on a blind date. They married on October 23, 1981.

Jeff started his career at Reichardt's Clothing as the buyer and manager, where he developed a lifelong appreciation for men's fashion and the art of sales. He later joined Meredith Burda as the Human Resource Officer at the printing plant in Lynchburg, Virginia, where he and Libby enjoyed living on a golf course. He was promoted to Corporate Vice President of Human Resources and moved back to Des Moines in 1989 with Libby and their three-year-old son, Jack. A few years later, the family welcomed their second son, Teddy.

Jeff's career next took them to North Muskegon, Michigan, where he worked for CT Farm and Country and the family enjoyed life by the lake. He eventually returned to Des Moines and finished his career as Senior Vice President of Sales at Hirsh Industries.

Golf was one of Jeff's greatest passions. He spent many happy years at Wakonda with close golf buddies and was honored to serve as President. Most vacations included golf with in-laws and friends, but his favorite was taking the whole family to Hawaii. Jeff was also known for his warm hospitality, often hosting family and friends for barbecues and pool parties.

Jeff is survived by his loving wife, Libby Stanton; his two sons, Jack Stanton and Teddy (Megan) Stanton; and his two cherished granddaughters, Kimberly (3) and Olivia (1). He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Marilyn Stanton; his brother, Roger Stanton; his father- and mother-in-law, Gerald and Anne Thornton; his sister-in-law, Laura Thornton; and his brother-in-law, Daniel Thornton.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, September 18, at 10:00 a.m., with the funeral service following at 11:00 a.m. at St. Augustin Church in Des Moines. A celebration of life will take place afterward at Wakonda Country Club.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor Jeff's legacy by paying it forward-do something special for a loved one or a stranger, just as Jeff often did throughout his life.

Online condolences are welcome at www.IlesCares.com.

Arrangements by Iles Dunn's Chapel.