Becky Ann Van Winkle, 79, of Mount Pleasant, went to be with Jesus on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, at Park Place Elder Living in Mount Pleasant, surrounded by the love of her family.
Becky was born April 27, 1947, at Henry County Health Center in Mount Pleasant, Iowa, the daughter of Simon Asbury and Eva Lucinda (Messer) Swailes.
After graduating from Mount Pleasant High School in 1965, Becky attended the University of Iowa, where she studied pharmacy before earning her degree in Medical Technology and Biology in 1970. While still in school, she began working in the laboratory at the Mount Pleasant Treatment Center, later known as the Mental Health Institute (MHI). Becky later continued her working career with the United States Postal Service in Mount Pleasant, where many community members came to know her friendly and caring presence before her retirement.
On February 15, 1975, Becky married Richard “Rick” Van Winkle at Forest Lake Baptist Camp rural Ottumwa. Becky’s Christian faith shaped every part of her life. She devoted many years to serving her churches through teaching, mentorship, missions, and hospitality.
Nothing brought Becky more joy than gathering family together. She was known for making holidays and family events special through carefully remembered birthdays and anniversaries, and traditions that created lasting memories. Family members especially remember Becky roaming through gatherings with a camera in hand, often catching people mid-bite during meals before they had a chance to protest. She was also well known for making sure pie arrived before the meal whenever possible.
She enjoyed studying scripture, traveling, and supporting the interests and activities of her family and grandchildren, who brought her tremendous joy.
Those thankful for sharing in her life include her son, Daniel (Kira) Van Winkle of Ottumwa; her daughter-in-law Kristin Van Winkle of Washington; her grandchildren Madison, Lincoln, Quincy, Grady, and Cooper Van Winkle; along with many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Simon and Eva Swailes; her sister, Dona Rose Church; her son, Dr. James Lewis Van Winkle; her husband, Richard “Rick” Van Winkle; and her brother, Rex C. Swailes.
Above all, Becky will be remembered for her steadfast faith in Jesus Christ, her servant’s heart, her kindness toward others, and the deep love she poured into her family every day of her life.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Friday, June 12, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at the Faith Christian Outreach Church in Mount Pleasant. Burial will follow in the Forest Home Cemetery. Friends may call after 2 p.m. on Thursday at the Murphy Funeral Home of Mount Pleasant where the family will be present from 5 to 7 p.m. that evening. Memorials may be directed to Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice in her memory.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.murphyfuneralandmonuments.com
The Murphy Funeral Home of Mount Pleasant is honored to serve the family with love, comfort and dignity as we celebrate the life of Becky.