Marshalltown Mourns the Loss of Mandy Abernathy, Community Pillar

The heart of Marshalltown, Iowa, is heavy with the passing of Madilyn “Mandy” Abernathy at 78. A life marked by service, compassion, and entrepreneurial spirit, her absence will be deeply felt by family and friends alike, along with all those whose lives she touched.

A Life of Service and Dedication

Abernathy passed away on Tuesday, June 10, 2025, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics. Funeral services are scheduled for Wednesday, June 18, 2025, at Grace Church in Marshalltown. A visitation will be held at Mitchell Family Funeral Home on June 17.

“Mandy’s professional life reflected her nurturing spirit and entrepreneurial drive. For two decades, she operated an in-home daycare, where her natural gift for caring for children flourished.”

—Source

Madilyn (Manning) Abernathy was born on July 19, 1946, in Albany, Missouri, the daughter of George and Jeanne (Strong) Manning. She graduated from Albany High School in 1964 and continued her education at Northwest Missouri State.

A Legacy of Love and Entrepreneurship

In 1966, Mandy married Jerry Lee VanHoutan, beginning her journey into motherhood. Later, in 1979, she wed Gerald Abernathy. Throughout transitions, she showed resilience, concentrating on her family, her business, and her church. Her entrepreneurial ventures included an in-home daycare, real estate work, and a career as a self-employed income tax preparer.

Beyond her professional life, Mandy dedicated herself to Samaritan’s Purse, volunteering countless hours aiding those in need globally. Her compassion extended to animals, especially cats, and she enjoyed gardening, movies, and spending time with her grandchildren. Recent data indicates that volunteerism rates are on the rise, with over 25% of Americans participating in volunteer activities (National Service 2024).

Family and Community

Mandy is survived by her children: Laura Elliston, Tracy (Jennifer) VanHoutan, Gordon Jay (Ilze) VanHoutan, and Brandy (Garry) Staker. Her stepchildren, Greg (Naida) and Glena (Robert) also survive. Her many grandchildren, siblings, and extended family are also left to remember her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, George and Jeanne; her sister, Meredith Good; her second husband, Gerald Abernathy; her stepson, Randy and his wife Julie; and her grandchildren, Noah and Laine VanHoutan. Her memory will forever be treasured by the many lives she touched.