Obituary: Jo Ann Maguire

Jo Ann Maguire, age 97, passed away on December 11, 2025. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend.
Born on April 5, 1928, Jo Ann was a lifelong resident of Rockwell City, IA. She married Delmar Erin Maguire on February 28, 1948.
In her early adult years she was a secretary, first for an attorney and then later Farm Bureau. She was always eager to embrace new experiences and share her gifts with others. Whether it was riding one of the very first RAGBRAI’s (Iowa’s bike ride across Iowa) or mastering the art of flower drying and wreath-making, she always enjoyed a new challenge. Jo Ann’s enthusiasm for learning led her to become a Toastmaster speaker, an avid bridge player and tested recipes for Betty Crocker.
Jo Ann’s talents were diverse, and her creativity shone through in her original poetry and writing. In her later years, she worked for Life Stories Enterprise in Ankeny, recording family stories for others.
She co-chaired the Centennial and Quasquicentennial cookbooks for Rockwell City. These books are still sought after today. She also contributed to the Sunnyview paper, sharing local stories with the community she loved, and served on their board. In addition, she was an active volunteer at the Calhoun County Museum, giving countless hours to preserving local history.
Her love for games, especially cards, was legendary. She even taught bridge for a time and had a memorable moment in 2016 when she achieved nearly a perfect score — something she proudly reminded her family about.
Her devotion as mom and grandmother were unmatched. Always there for her children through busy school years, club activities, and every milestone in between. She served as Mother Advisor for Rainbow. Fifty plus year member of the Order of Eastern Star. JoAnn treasured the hours spent with her grandchildren and savored each of their special moments.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Delmar, and son-in-law Charles Kim.
Jo Ann is survived by her children, Nicolette (Ron) Bonnstetter, Michele Maguire Beck and Erin Maguire. And three grandchildren (Brieanna, Tanner and Morgan) who cherish their time and memories with her.
Jo Ann’s legacy of learning, laughter, and love will forever inspire those who knew her.
Her remains will be buried in Rosehill Cemetery in Rockwell City, Iowa at a later date.
Armstrong Funeral Home in Mount Ayr was in charge of the cremation arrangements for Jo Ann Maguire.