Mardeena Derby

Mardeena Carolyn Derby, affectionately known as Deenie, passed away on November 12, 2026, at the age of 89. Born in Centerville, Iowa, on May 5, 1937 to Emery and Sylvia (Hart) Hiatt. She grew up in the Moravia area and graduated from Moravia High School, class of 1955. Mardeena was a devoted caregiver and farmer, dedicating her life to serving adults with special needs. Her commitment to this noble cause was matched only by her dedication to her family and community.

Mardeena married her beloved husband, Larry Emmett Derby on August 18, 1957 at the EUB Church in Moravia with whom she shared nearly six decades of companionship until his passing. Together, they managed a thriving farm in Monroe County, where Mardeena skillfully handled the demanding task of milking 100 cows on her own when needed. Her passion for gardening was evident through her nurturing green thumb, and her home was a testament to her love for plants. Mardeena was also a skilled crocheter and knitter, often creating beautiful pieces for her loved ones. Her musical talents graced those around her as she played the organ with grace and joy. She truly enjoyed water aerobics and she led classes for fifteen years at the White Buffalo.

Beyond her personal interests, Mardeena was a pillar in her community, serving as the kids' 4H leader and taking an active role in the Franklin Township 4H clubs and the Franklin Happy Helpers. Her legacy is defined by her unwavering commitment to family, which she cherished above all else.

She is survived by her children, Maureen (Brian) Hunt of Bussey, Mark (Julie) Derby of Pleasantville, Melanie (Mike) Haywood of Albia, Max (Diane) Derby of Gilman; thirteen grandchildren, Eric Coalbank, Chad (Stephanie) Coalbank, Chelsea (Kody) Wooldridge, Emily Hunt, Danny Yarkosky, Scott (Mallory) Yarkosky, Kyle Yarkosky, Eric (Leah) Haywood, Kacie (Korey Garrels) Yarkosky, Nick (Carrie Starks) Derby, Tara (Trevor) Hoeksema, Josh and Kyle (Deena) Clark; twenty-one great grandchildren, Kate Coalbank, Ty and Kaylee Coalbank, Heaven, Braelynn, Kaydin, Kinsley, Kahrynn, Kauree and Kodi Wooldridge, Ari and Cruz Haywood, Brody and Hayley Yarkosky, Ethan, Alyona and Jaxon Hoeksema, Alexis, Skylar, Vivianne and Kahlyr Clark; brother-in-law, Gary Perry; and in-laws, Karen Morrow, Monte (Toni) Derby, Rita Clark. Mardeena is also survived by her coffee buddy, Connie Bandstra; caretaker, Deeanna Smith, and beloved dog, Roxie.
She is preceded in death by her husband, Larry Derby; parents, Emery and Sylvia (Hart) Hiatt; sister, DeLoris Perry; and dog Mitzi.

Visitation will be held on Monday, November 16, 2026, opening to the public at 3 pm, with family present from 5-7 pm, Monday evening at Sinnott Funeral Home in Albia. A funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, November 17, 2026 with Pastor John Sowers officiating at the First Christian Church in Albia. Interment will follow in Hillcrest Cemetery in Moravia. Memorials have been established to the First Christian Church in Albia.

Her life was a testament to hard work, love, and community service. Friends and family are encouraged to leave their cherished memories and upload photos to Mardeena's memorial page, celebrating a life well-lived.