Leona Sutton

Leona P. Sutton, age 101, died on January 24, 2025. She was born April 5, 1923 in Des Moines, Iowa.

Leona graduated from North High School in Des Moines, and attended Drake University. She began a career in banking and after 44 years retired from Bankers Trust Company at the age of 70, as the first female Vice President in the Financial Services Group. During her business career she served as President of Central Iowa Financial Women International, President of Hawkeye Chapter of Professional Secretaries International and served on the board of Women’s Chamber Alliance.

Leona was a lifetime member of Grace United Methodist Church, sang in the choir for 25 years, and a member of United Methodist Women. She served on the board of the Des Moines Symphony Alliance, a member of Des Moines Pioneer Club, honorary member of Chapter HY of PEO, volunteered at her church, Salisbury House, Wesley Acres Retirement Community and Central Iowa Shelter.

Among her interests were extensive traveling, the joy of reading, a love of music and art. Leona cherished her family and friends.

She is survived by her nieces, Jill Schatz, Estero, FL, Joy (Daniel) Reeves, Slater, Joyce (Kelly) Carpenter, Des Moines, Janice (Emmett) Schnathorst, Urbandale; Nephew, Dale Janish, Anaheim, California; and 17 great; 35 great great; and 3 great great great nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Fred and Amy Sutton; sister, Lela Janish; and brother and sister-in-law, Earl and Jean L Sutton.

Services will be at Grace United Methodist Church at 3700 Cottage Grove in Des Moines, Iowa on Sunday, Feb 2, 2025 at 2:00 pm. A gathering with refreshments will follow the service.

Memorials may be directed to Grace United Methodist Church.