Eileen M. McBeth

MOUNT PLEASANT- Eileen McBeth, 91, of Mount Pleasant, died Monday, February 3, 2025, at the Henry County Health Center.

Eileen May Schuelka McBeth was born at home outside the town of Primrose, in Lee County, Iowa, on October 18, 1933. She was the third child of five, born to John Henry Schuelka, Sr., and Grace Margaret Kemp Schuelka.

Eileen attended Donnellson Independent Schools, graduating from Donnellson High School in 1951.

She often recounted that until she next moved to Mount Pleasant to attend Iowa Wesleyan College, she had not lived in a place that had both electricity and running water. Perhaps it was the "amenities," but Eileen resided in Mount Pleasant for the remainder of her life.

At IWC, Eileen studied elementary education obtaining her teaching certificate in 1954. Later in life, she went back to Wesleyan, completing further studies in psychology and science. Eileen worked her way through college, primarily as a waitress. Despite a busy life with studies and a job, Eileen often recounted her fun in participating in college theatrical productions and revues during those years.

While attending a softball game one summer, Eileen met her future husband, Richard McBeth. They were married May 28, 1955, in Davenport, Iowa, and were together for 58 years until Richard's death, February 24, 2013.

Prior to the birth of her children, Eileen taught first grade in New London, Iowa. She was an active mother, involved as a Brownie and Jr. Girl Scout Leader, and an Asst. Cub Scout Leader. She was an avid follower of her children's (and grandchildren's) sports, music, theater, and other activities. Eileen taught Sunday School for three-year-olds at the First Presbyterian Church for several years, an institution with which she maintained a lifelong association (in spirit, if not always in person!). In addition, for approximately twenty years she volunteered for the American Cancer Society.

For a brief time, Eileen was clerk and part owner (with Richard) of the "Budget Shop," selling antiques and used furniture. She and Richard also enjoyed going to garage sales, as well as staging their own.

Eileen spent hours on crocheting and cross-stitch, working on crossword and find-a-word puzzles, and she was an avid reader with a special love of memoir, history, and informational texts. She loved listening to music and had a wonderful singing voice. She also enjoyed journaling and had a flair for writing, and she was no stranger to laughing at a good joke. Eileen had fun exploring the worldwide web, as well as emailing jokes and notes to her family and friends. Her time was filled for several years with the care of their dog, "Poncho," and she could frequently be seen walking him in the neighborhood.

Eileen was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers (Gene and John, Jr.), a brother-in-law, sisters-in-law, her wonderful grandson, Jeff, and by her beloved husband, Richard McBeth.

She is survived by her two daughters, Marcy (Robert) Russell, of Marion, Amy McBeth (Brian Barkley), of North Liberty, son Michael (Laurie) McBeth, of New London, and step-son Andrew McBeth (David Jenison), of Windsor Heights. She is also survived by her sister Agnes Bell of Marshalltown, her brother Francis Schuelka of Cedar, and by her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins. Her strong presence in a room will be missed.

Memorial donations may be made to the MPCSD Foundation or Henry County Health Center Foundation and can be mailed to Olson-Powell Chapel 709 E Mapleleaf Dr Mount Pleasant, Iowa 52641.

A private family graveside service will be held at the Forest Home Cemetery, words of comfort will be offered by Tim Olson. Public Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. The Olson-Powell Chapel & Crematory is caring for Eileen and her family. www.powellfuneralhomes.com