Barbara Ann McKelvey

Barbara Ann McKelvey, born in Boone, Iowa passed away on 30 August, 2026, at the age of 83. Celebration of Life Services will be held 13 September, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. at the Unity Church of Ames, 226 9th Street, Ames, IA 50010. A private ceremony will follow at Saratoga Cemetery in Stanhope, IA.

Barbara was born April 30, 1943, in Boone, IA to Sterling and Eline Wills. She made her home in several locations, Boone, Belle Plaine, Ames, IA and New Windsor, NY. She resided in Ames over the past nineteen years.

Barbara was a devoted mother and grandmother. She enjoyed spending time with her children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews. She loved movies, music, watching sports and cheering on the Cyclones! She enjoyed traveling, visiting England, New England, California, Colorado, Missouri, New York, New Orleans, Minnesota, North Carolina, Virginia, Washington DC, and Florida to see family and friends. Her greatest joy in life was being a devoted member of the Unity Church of Ames and had an enduring faith in Jesus and followed his message of love and caring for those in need.

Barbara is survived by her children Julie Murphy, Thomas (Stacey) McKelvey of St Augustine, FL, and Christopher (Lisa) Rich-McKelvey of Ames, IA; grandchildren Kyrie Murphy and Owyn McKelvey; and brother Barry of Madrid. She was preceded in death by her sister Sally Anderson.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Unity Church of Ames at unityofames.com.