Margaret (Margie) Carolyn Courtney Curtis, a loving mother, devoted friend, and fierce advocate for animals, passed away at the age of 77, February 5, 2025, in Keota, Iowa. Born February 24, 1947, in Fairfield, Iowa, to Florine Roslin Moyer Courtney and Alfred Lee Courtney, Margaret spent her life brightening the world with her kindness, humor, and unwavering compassion.
A mother first and foremost, she is survived by her beloved children: Lorna Leigh Curtis, Lonnie Summers (Eric Cuellar), Ray Curtis Jr. (Rochelle Engle), and bonus child Lisa Vannoy. She was a proud grandmother to five adoring grandchildren: Alec Summers (Beth), Shelby Curtis (Eric Paske), Skyler Cuellar, Lucian Curtis, and Kylie Cuellar (Jairo Oyuela). She also cherished her role as a great-grandmother to Draven Rains and Amara Oyuela. She is survived by her brother, Jon Lee Courtney, and sister-in-law, Linda Courtney, as well as her nephew, Jon Lee Courtney Jr., who brought her great joy.
Margaret was preceded in death by her daughter Loretta Lynn, mother, Florine Roslin Moyer Courtney, her father, Alfred Lee Courtney, her nephew Jimmy Courtney, and her life partner, Carolyn Millard.
Before entering Keota Health Center-Memory Care in June of 2024, she spent the previous 5 years living in Austin, Texas with her family and loved spending time with family at countless live music shows, dancing, listening to music, car rides, trips to the surrounding zoos and going out to eat. Previously her time in Iowa was spent fishing and playing cards with family, and visiting with friends.
Margaret dedicated her life to rescuing and caring for animals, ensuring that every creature she encountered felt the warmth of her love. Her passion for helping those in need extended beyond animals—she was a friend to everyone she met, greeting the world with an open heart, an infectious smile, and a spirit as warm as the sun.
Those who knew Margaret would describe her as funny, ornery, and full of life. Her smile could light up a room, and her mischievous wit made every moment spent with her unforgettable. She had a way of making people feel seen, loved, and valued, leaving an imprint on every soul she touched.
Though she is no longer with us in person, Margaret’s legacy of love, laughter, and compassion will continue through the countless lives she impacted. Her family, friends, and the many animals she cared for will forever cherish her memory.
A celebration of Margaret’s beautiful life will be held at a later date to allow out-of-state family members to attend. Details will be announced. Behner Funeral Home in Fairfield is assisting the family. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Paws in Ft Madison in her honor, continuing her lifelong mission of love and care.
Margaret, your smile, your laughter, and your boundless love will be missed beyond measure—but your spirit will never fade.
“Our sweet momma loved with her whole heart. We didn’t have much, but we always had love.” – Her Loving Children
