Joan K. James

Joan Kathleen James was born on February 20, 1943, in Manly, Iowa, to Thomas and Izetta (Carre) Ryan. She grew up with a strong sense of family and faith that guided her throughout her life. After completing her education, Joan pursued a career as a cosmetologist. On December 4, 1965, she married the love of her life, Dean James.

Joan was an excellent baker and found joy in quilting, both of which she shared generously with family and friends. A faithful member of St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Buffalo Center, she lived her faith daily and gave her time in service to others. She was active in her community, especially through her work with the senior center and congregate meals program.

She is survived by her three children and nine grandchildren. Tony (Traci) James and their children Amanda, Ryan, Carter, and Gabe; Sherri (Alan) Sperlich and their children Shelby (Ario) Faizal and Isaac; and Doug (Kate) James and their children Riley, Reagan, and Ronan. She is also survived by her siblings: Pat (Ken) Arp, Madonna (Terry) Cinkle, Judy Cartsens, Diane Ryan, and Tom (Sharron) Ryan; and many other family and friends.

Joan was preceded in death by her husband, Dean on October 11, 2000; her sister, Karen (Richard) Engleman, and her brother Richard Ryan; and her brother-in-law George Cartsens.

Joan K. James died on Monday, August 25, 2025, at Arbor Springs Nursing Home in West Des Moines. She was 82.

Her life will be celebrated at a Funeral Mass on Friday, August 29, 2025, at 11:00 AM at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Buffalo Center. Burial will follow at Graceland Cemetery in Buffalo Center. A visitation will be held on Friday, August 29, 2025, from 9:30 to 10:45 AM at Oakcrest Funeral Services of Buffalo Center.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to her family in which they will distribute to Iowa Alzheimer's Association and to Every Step Hospice, in Joan's memory.