Joretta Mae Van Antwerp, 93, of Agency, Iowa passed on April 11, 2026, at The Good Samaritan Society – Ottumwa.
She was born December 14, 1932 at her parents’ home north of Plano, Iowa, to Roscoe G. and Nettie B. Clark Curtis. After graduating high school, Joretta worked as a telephone operator in Corydon, Iowa.
On May 17, 1953, she married Ferne R. Van Antwerp, and they built a life rooted in faith, family and hard work. As a farmer’s wife, she devoted herself to raising their five sons. Later in life she provided childcare in their home, caring for many children with the same patience and steadiness she gave her own.
Joretta and Ferne shared a deep Christian faith and a love of music; they often wrote and performed Christian songs for family and the community. A devoted member of Hickory Grove Community Church, Joretta lived her faith openly and joyfully.
Left to cherish her memory are her sons, Wes (Cindy) Van Antwerp of Agency, Lyle (Karen) Van Antwerp of Ottumwa, Tom Van Antwerp of Des Moines, Timothy (Emily) Van Antwerp of Eddyville and Robert Van Antwerp of Agency; along with 21 grandchildren and many great grandchildren, a great-great granddaughter, cousins, nieces and nephews. She is also lovingly remembered by Michelle Van Antwerp, who remained close to her throughout the years.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Ferne; her parents; and all her brothers and sisters. Her family takes comfort knowing she is in Heaven with her Lord & Savior as well is reunited with her husband, Ferne.
Visitation will be open after 10 a.m. Thursday, April 16th at Reece Funeral Home with her family present to greet friends from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday.
Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Friday, April 17th at Hickory Grove Community Church with her son, Wes officiating. Burial will be in Agency Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to Hickory Grove Community Church for missions.
