Noreen Yarbrough

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Noreen Kay Yarbrough (also known as Reen), born on September 4, 1963 in Phoenix, Arizona to Thomas Leroy and Barbara Jean (Roland) Smith. She left us on September 2, 2026. Noreen resided in Malcom, Iowa, a town she held dear to her heart.

Known for her love of thrift shopping, Noreen was a frequent visitor of the Dollar Tree and second-hand stores. She possessed an exceptional spirit and tenacity, evident in her ability to surpass the challenges of being born with one hand. Noreen was an inspiration to all, demonstrating an incredible skillset that left many in awe, including tying her shoes at the tender age of three. Her creativity shone through her love for crafting, and she was often seen with a Coca Cola, her favorite drink, in hand. Known for her honesty, Noreen was a person who spoke her mind, and you always knew where you stood with her. Her spunky nature and zest for life were contagious, often infusing any room with positive energy.

Above all, what mattered most to Noreen was her role as a mother and grandmother. Her family was the center of her universe, and her devotion was unyielding. Her two dogs were also a significant part of her life, often accompanying her on her thrifting adventures. Noreen’s love for her family and her vibrant personality will be profoundly missed by all who knew her.

She is survived by fiancee, Dave Fox; father, Thomas Smith; four children, Stephanie Edwards, Stacy Yarbrough, Steven Yarbrough, Samantha Yarbrough; grandchildren, Hunter, Brody, Braxton Edwards, Kaytee Ingraham (Tristan), Owen Crook, Maverick McSparen, Mortakye Thomas; siblings, Teresa Hagen, Angie Pettyjohn, Shari Beaty, Dennis Smith, Chad Smith, Laura Fletcher, Ann Orndorff, Elvin Brown; step-children, James "Moppie" Thomas and Sarah Fox; many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and dogs, Teddy and Shadow. She was preceded in death her mother, Barbara Pettyjohn, husband, Steve Yarbrough; brothers, Norman, Thomas “Toot” Smith; grandchildren, Caleb, Tyler, and Grayson; stepmother, Sammy Smith; three dogs, Sasha, Jack, and her dog baby Zeus "Zoo Zoo"

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, September, 9, 2026 at Sinnott Funeral Home, in Albia from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Funeral Services will also be held on Wednesday at 1:00 p.m. at the funeral home in Albia with interment to follow in Pringle Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to the family.

Noreen's life was a tapestry of love, resilience, and contagious energy. We invite you to leave your memories of Noreen and upload photos to the memorial page to celebrate her remarkable life.