Amanda Himes

Amanda Lee-Ann Himes, affectionately known as Mandy, departed this world on February 1, 2024, in Illinois, while embracing the open road she so dearly loved as a dedicated semi-truck driver. Born in Iowa City on August 21, 1975, to the proud parents Donald and Suzie (King) Ward, Mandy's life began with the promise of adventure and love.

Mandy spent her formative years in the welcoming communities of Farmington and Keosauqua, where she nurtured lifelong friendships and developed her robust sense of independence. She attended Van Buren High School. Mandy's career path led her to become a respected truck driver, a role she performed with unparalleled dedication. Before taking to the highways for L&J Farms, she served the community at Allsup's.

Her life was enriched by love when she married Jeff Himes on a beautiful summer day, July 1, 2021. Together, they built a life filled with laughter, support, and mutual respect. Mandy's memory will be forever cherished by her loving husband, Jeff, who stands as a testament to their shared dreams and unwavering partnership.

The legacy of Mandy's love and vibrant spirit lives on through her beloved children, Nathaniel Wright (Lacy Snead), Shannon Saeger, Tyler Wright, Kendra Himes and Trent Himes. Each child reflects a unique facet of Mandy's character, from her boundless energy to her compassionate heart. Her role as a grandmother to Jackson Wright was one she embraced with joy, her face always lighting up with a smile at the mention of her grandson.

Mandy's family circle included her devoted sisters, Samantha Ward and Elizabeth Ward-Steele; her caring uncle, Leroy Pilcher (Lona); and her supportive aunt, Lela Sempf. She also leaves behind seven step-grandchildren, whose lives were enriched by her playful and nurturing presence. Her nieces, Hailey Scearcy, Katie Steele and Clair Leonard, along with her nephew, Dakotah Ward-Steele, will remember their aunt as a pillar of strength and a source of endless fun.

Her three loyal dogs, Leo, Cash, and Blaze, were not just pets but cherished companions who brought daily comfort and joy to her life. Mandy's love for her furry friends was a reflection of her overall capacity for love and care, which extended to all who had the pleasure of knowing her.

Mandy was preceded in passing by her grandparents, Clarence and Dillie King and Arland and Norma Ward, great-grandparents, Lloyd and Ada Pilcher, and several aunts and uncles. Their guidance and memories have been a beacon throughout her life and will continue to shine brightly as her family navigates this difficult time.

A celebration of Mandy's life will be held at 2:00PM on Sunday, February 11, 2024, at the Keosauqua Senior Center. The service, officiated by Pastor Jerry Hoover, will offer friends, family, and loved ones an opportunity to gather in remembrance of a life lived with passion and purpose. Memorials to the family may be brought to the service or mailed to the family at 14874 Front Street, Douds, IA 52551.

In lieu of traditional remembrances, all who knew Mandy are invited to carry her spirit forward by embracing life's journey with the same courage and love she demonstrated every day. Her legacy will be honored not through tangible tokens but through acts of kindness, laughter shared, and miles traveled with the wind at our backs, just as Mandy would have wanted.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.cranstonfamilyfuneralhome.com, a virtual space to share memories and celebrate the life of a truly remarkable woman. Mandy's family is grateful for the outpouring of support during this time of mourning and invites all who knew her to share in the joy she brought to this world.