Iona J. Stanley, age 97, of Pueblo, CO, passed away on Saturday, April 4, 2026 in Walsh, CO. Known for her independence, steadfast faith, artistic talent, and love for her family, she was born in Pueblo, Colorado on April 26, 1928. She was a graduate of Central High School and after several years of moving to other states with family, she returned to and lived in Pueblo for many years as a widow.
In Iona’s younger years she was an avid square-dancer and rock hound who traveled the country with family for CB Radio Jamborees and loved to camp, hike, and rock hunt. She and her second husband, Chester sang in a gospel quartet for several years in the 1970’s. Later, Iona worked with dedication as a dental assistant and as a school cook. She was deeply involved in her church, performing ministry work and singing in the choirs at Park Hill Baptist and during her last few years in Pueblo, she attended Antioch Baptist Church.
Equally devoted to creative pursuits, she was widely admired for her award-winning paintings, her green thumb and beautiful flower garden, for the hand‑crocheted dolls, canned goods, quilts she made, her abilities as a seamstress and her rock collection. She was known for her love of travel, camping, going to The Bell Game every year with her rival, Centennial Alum, and little sister Mabel Jeanne, and supporting her great nephews at their sporting events around the state of Colorado, for over a decade.
She was preceded in death by her husbands, Lawrence L. Williams and Major Chester A. Stanley, USAF, Retired, by five siblings, and by her son, Jimmy L. Williams. She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Dr. Lawrence L. (Gloria) Williams, Step-daughter Sharon (Greg) Miller, Daughter-in-law Cheryl Williams, her grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews, great and great-great, who will always appreciate and be inspired by her, faith, love, support, and her fierce independence.
Services April 24, 2026 2:00 p.m. at Imperial Memorial Gardens Chapel with graveside service to follow.
In lieu of flowers/gifts/food, please make a Memorial Donation in Iona's honor to Posada of Pueblo. https://www.posadapueblo.org/
