Pam Needham, 72, of Grinnell, died on Thursday, October 3, 2024, at St. Francis Manor in Grinnell and under the care of the UnityPoint Grinnell Regional Hospice.

A funeral service will be held at 10:00 am, Wednesday, October 9, 2024, at the Grinnell Christian Church. Interment will be at Woodland Cemetery in Lynnville.

The family will receive friends at the visitation held from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm on Tuesday, October 8th at the Smith Funeral Home in Grinnell.

Memorials may be designated to Mason's Lighthouse and mailed in care of the Smith Funeral Home and Crematory, PO Box 368, Grinnell, IA 50112. Memories and condolences may be shared with Pam's family online at www.smithfh.com.

Pamela May Stroup was born the daughter of Kenneth and Velma (Endres) Stroup on June 4, 1952 in Creston, IA. She was raised in Greenfield, IA and Newton, Iowa, respectively, and she graduated from Newton High School in 1970.

Pam was united in marriage to Terry Needham on September 26, 1987 at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, IA. They resided in Newton and Pam worked for Forbes Office Equipment in Newton and for Jerry's Cleaners in Grinnell.

Pam dearly loved her family, with a special place in her heart for her grandchildren, who brought her immense joy and pride. Known affectionately as "Nana" by many, Pam's love for children extended beyond her own family, creating bonds that touched many lives.

Pam thrived on bringing her family together for holidays and birthday gatherings, where her vibrant presence and warmth made every occasion special. She was strong-willed and persistent, with an ornery sense of humor that kept everyone on their toes, and a fiercely protective spirit when it came to those she loved.

She loved being outdoors, enjoying the simple pleasures of nature. Pam also enjoyed puzzles and card games like Skip-Bo, where her competitive streak shined through. In quieter moments, she found solace in watching her favorite Hallmark Channel movies, always appreciating a heartwarming story.

Pam is survived by her son, Rob Needham of Williamsburg; daughter, Michelle (Nathan) Andrews of Grinnell; grandchildren: Brittany (Trevor) Annee and her mother, Carla Gander, Jared Andrews, and Mayci Andrews; 4 step-children; and 9 step-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, Kenneth and Velma (Endres) Stroup; husband, Terry Needham; and brother, Michael Stroup.