Jeanene Peiffer

Jeanene Williams Peiffer

August 23, 1932 – October 19, 2026

Jeanene Williams Peiffer, 94, of Sigourney, Iowa, passed away on October 19, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of cherished memories and a legacy of love, faith, family, and service to her community.

Jeanene was born on August 23, 1932, in Pershing, Iowa, to Clyde and Violet Johnston Williams. She graduated from Ottumwa High School in 1949 and began her working years as a secretary for Barker Poultry and later John Morrell and Company in Ottumwa.

Jeanene and Herbert's love story began at the skating rink at the Ottumwa airport, where the two first met. On July 30, 1955, they were married, beginning a loving partnership that would span 57 years. Together, they made their home on a farm south of Sigourney, where they raised their five children. Their home was filled with family, music, laughter, and the many joys of country living.

Jeanene had a special gift for making life brighter for those around her. With her warm personality, wonderful sense of humor, and genuine enjoyment of people, she was a pleasure to be around. She and Herbert especially enjoyed traveling with their children, attending their performances, and visiting friends near and far. Jeanene took great pride in supporting her children's family band and encouraging each of them to pursue their individual talents and interests. Her family was always at the center of her life, and she delighted in the accomplishments and happiness of those she loved.

Jeanene was equally devoted to her community. She served as chairman of the Keokuk County Women's Farm Bureau for more than 30 years and was an enthusiastic member of the Keokuk County Farm Bureau Women's Chorus and Kitchen Band. Music brought her great enjoyment and she loved sharing that gift with others.

She also served as the West Lancaster Township clerk, belonged to the neighborhood Industrial Club, and generously volunteered her time with Keokuk County Hospice.

Among Jeanene's many interests was her talent for making candy, which earned her numerous ribbons at local county fairs and the Iowa State Fair. Her dedication to family, homemaking, agriculture, and community service was recognized when she was named an Iowa Master Farm Homemaker in 1990 and an Iowa Mother of Achievement in 2016. She was also a member of the Association of Country Women of the World.

Jeanene's Catholic faith was an important part of her life. As a devoted member of St. Mary's Church in Sigourney, she sang in the church choir, taught catechism, and participated in the Altar and Rosary Society. Her faith was a source of strength and comfort throughout her life and was reflected in the kindness and generosity she extended to others.

Jeanene is survived by her five children: Gregory M. (Diane) Peiffer of Rose Hill; Sharon Peiffer (Wayne) Hammes of Oskaloosa; Bruce (Cyndi) Peiffer of Oskaloosa; David (Angelika) Peiffer of Eldridge; and Eric (Shawndra) Peiffer of Seattle.

She is also survived by her sister, Jeanette Stolte of Ottumwa, and her brother, Clyde Williams Jr. of Yountville, California; her eleven grandchildren: Melissa McLaughlin, Christina Montgomery, Theresa Glandon, Adam Hammes, John Hammes, Megan Peiffer, Ben Peiffer, Andy Peiffer, Molly Peiffer, and Nicolas Peiffer, and fourteen great-grandchildren.

Jeanene was preceded in death by her parents and her beloved husband, Herbert.

Those who knew Jeanene will remember her warmth, her laughter, her love of music, and the genuine pleasure she found in being surrounded by family and friends. She lived a full and meaningful life, giving generously of herself and finding happiness in the people and activities she loved.

Her family is deeply grateful for the blessing of her 94 years and the many wonderful memories they will carry forward. They take comfort in knowing that Jeanene is now at peace, reunited with Herbert, and resting in the loving arms of her Lord.

Her life was a blessing, her memory a treasure, and her love a gift that will remain with her family for generations to come.

Prayer Service: 4:30 p.m. Friday October 23, 2026 Holm Funeral Home 
Visitation Friday: October 23, 2026 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. at Holm Funeral Home – Sigourney 
Funeral Mass: 10:30 a.m. Saturday October 24, 2026 St. Mary Catholic Church – Sigourney
 Burial: Pleasant Grove Cemetery