A Life Beautifully Lived: Remembering Barbara J. Cooney's Enduring Spirit

And so, a familiar and much-loved presence in our community has, for once, gone quiet. Barbara J. Cooney, a woman whose life was, in truth, a tapestry woven with devotion and grace, passed away peacefully on November 7, 2025, at the Iowa Methodist Medical Center in Des Moines. She was 91 years old, and her departure leaves a noticeable space in the hearts of many.

Born Barbara J. Key on March 28, 1934, in Corning, Iowa, she was the cherished daughter of Harry and Freda (Dredge) Key. Her early years were spent amidst the gentle rhythms of small-town life, graduating from Corning High School in 1951. She even ventured into higher education for a couple of years at NW Missouri State in Maryville, broadening her horizons before returning to the heartland that always called her name.

But really, her true life's journey began on November 27, 1953, when she exchanged vows with Robert “Bob” Cooney in Creston. Together, they built a life, a home, and a legacy on their farm south of Creston. Barbara, you see, wasn't just a homemaker; she was the very heart of that home, a steadfast partner in the farming operation, always there, always supportive. You could say their life together was a testament to enduring love and shared hard work.

Her greatest joy, without a doubt, sprang from her family. Her children, Steve (Judy) Cooney of Creston, Susan (Rick) McCann of Omaha, and Jim Cooney of Creston, were her world. And oh, the grandchildren! Matthew (Kim) Cooney, Michael (Jessica) Cooney, Sarah (Adam) Shinn, Rachel (Matt) Young, Ryan (Jaci) McCann, and Lindsay (Sean) McNealy – each one a source of immense pride and happiness. Barbara loved attending their activities, celebrating their milestones, always present, always cheering them on. And then came the great-grandchildren, bringing another wave of joy into her already rich life.

Beyond the farm and family, Barbara found pleasure in a variety of pursuits. She and Bob enjoyed traveling, creating countless memories together. She possessed a green thumb, cultivating beautiful gardens, and found camaraderie in her bridge games, a little competitive spirit, perhaps. Golfing was another favorite pastime, as was her active involvement with the United Methodist Church, where her faith and fellowship flourished. Her quiet strength and kind spirit were evident in all she did.

She was preceded in death by those she loved dearly: her parents, her brother Richard Key, her sister Betty (Key) Smith, and, of course, her beloved husband, Robert, who passed in 2018. It’s comforting, in a way, to imagine their reunion. Barbara leaves behind a vast family and a community profoundly touched by her presence. Her memory will be honored at a funeral service on November 12, 2025, at Powers Funeral Home in Creston, with interment to follow at Graceland Cemetery. For those wishing to honor her further, memorial contributions can be made to the United Methodist Church or Greater Regional Hospice. Her life was, quite simply, a gift.