Evelyn Mary Wiley, age 101, of Grinnell, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, surrounded by family at St. Francis Manor in Grinnell.

Evelyn was born on August 3, 1924, in Brooklyn, Iowa, to George and Margaret (Kriegel) Cline. She grew up on a farm near Brooklyn as one of eleven children. She embraced the values of a large family and hard work associated with living on a farm. She spent time tending to the garden as well as farm animals.

On April 22, 1947, Evelyn married the love of her life, Wayne Wiley, in Brooklyn, Iowa. They shared 67 wonderful years together and built their life in Grinnell, where they raised their family of 5 children.

Evelyn loved gardening, cooking, and playing cards. She was especially known for her delicious ham balls, cinnamon rolls, homemade noodles, cream puffs, cream cheese mints, and pies. Her favorite card games included gin, canasta, golf, and UNO. But above all, Evelyn loved her family. She cherished every gathering, celebrating with hearty meals, sweet treats, and laughter creating family traditions. Her grand and great-grandchildren brought her pure joy!

A devoted member of St. Mary Catholic Church, Evelyn's faith was a guiding force in her life. She was actively involved in church activities and would pray daily for her family and friends.

Evelyn is survived by her five children, Janice (Dan) Grandstaff of Mason City, Chuck (Sue) Wiley of Farmington, MN, Teresa (Steve) Whitaker of Urbandale, Susan (Dan) Johnson of Urbandale, and Scott (Barb) Wiley of Iowa City; 12 grandchildren, and 14 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Wayne; one grandson, Jacob Johnson; 3 sisters; and 7 brothers.

A funeral mass is scheduled for 11:00 AM, Saturday, September 13, 2025, at St. Mary Catholic Church, Grinnell, IA with interment at Hazelwood Cemetery. A luncheon will be held at the church following the interment. Family will greet friends during a visitation held prior to the service from 9:00 AM to 10:45 AM, Saturday, September 13, 2025, at St. Mary Catholic Church.

If desired, memorial contributions may be designated to St. Mary Catholic Church and mailed in care of Smith Funeral Home, PO Box 368, Grinnell, IA 50112.