BUFFALO CENTER, Iowa – It is with deep sadness that the Buffalo Center community mourns the passing of Joan Kathleen James, who died peacefully on Monday, August 25, 2025, at Arbor Springs Nursing Home in West Des Moines. She was 82 years old.
A Life of Faith and Family
Joan Kathleen James was born on February 20, 1943, in Manly, Iowa, to Thomas and Izetta (Carre) Ryan. From a young age, Joan was guided by a strong sense of family, faith, and service. After completing her education, she pursued a career as a cosmetologist, bringing joy and care to her clients and leaving lasting impressions on everyone she met.
On December 4, 1965, she married her beloved husband, Dean James, beginning a partnership filled with love, devotion, and shared memories.
Passions and Community Service
Joan was a woman of many talents and generous spirit. She loved baking and quilting, creating treats and handcrafted quilts that she freely shared with family, friends, and neighbors. Her creative gifts were a reflection of her warm heart and caring nature.
A devoted member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Buffalo Center, Joan dedicated her life to her faith and the service of others. She actively participated in the senior center and congregate meals program, spending countless hours helping those in need and fostering a sense of community around her.
Family and Legacy
Joan 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
- 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, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.
Joan was preceded in death by her husband, Dean James (October 11, 2000); her sister, Karen (Richard) Engleman; her brother, Richard Ryan; and her brother-in-law, George Cartsens.
Celebrating Her Life
A Funeral Mass honoring Joan Kathleen James will be held on Friday, August 29, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Buffalo Center. Burial will follow at Graceland Cemetery.
Family and friends may pay their respects during a visitation from 9:30 to 10:45 a.m. on Friday at Oakcrest Funeral Services of Buffalo Center.
Remembering Joan
Joan Kathleen James will be remembered as a woman of faith, love, and generosity. Her dedication to family, her passion for baking and quilting, and her service to the community left an enduring legacy. She touched the lives of everyone who knew her, and her memory will continue to live on through her children, grandchildren, and the countless individuals who were blessed by her kindness.
“Joan’s life was a gift to all who knew her. Her heart, hands, and spirit enriched this community, and she will be deeply missed,” said a family spokesperson.
The Buffalo Center community joins her family in mourning, celebrating, and remembering the life of Joan Kathleen James — a life well-lived, filled with love, faith, and service.