Barbara E. Moats

Barbara Ellen Moats, age 86, passed away peacefully on February 6, 2026, in Gilbert, Arizona, and now in the presence of God.

Barbara was born on November 18, 1939, in Homer, Iowa, and grew up in Webster City. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great‑grandmother, she lived a life grounded in faith, family, and friendship. She will be remembered for her kindness, her strength, her warm hugs, the twinkle in her eye, and her sassy humor.

Barbara married Leland Moats on November 18, 1960. They shared 48 years of marriage as best friends, building a rich life together. In 1963, they moved to Ames, Iowa, where they raised their four children and became deeply rooted in their church and sweet community.

During her children’s early years, Barbara was at home with them—her greatest joy and priority. Once they were in school, she began using her creative gifts in a local flower shop and later in women’s clothing and beauty boutiques. She designed window displays, arranged flowers, and helped women choose clothing that made them feel beautiful. Barbara loved to paint, garden, and surround herself with color and made her house a beautiful “home.”. She also loved fiercely cheering on the Iowa State Cyclones, especially loving the basketball games. She saw beauty everywhere and often said every person was like a book—she delighted in discovering their stories. Every stranger was a potential new friend.

Barbara and Lee were founding and lifelong members of North Grand Church of Christ in Ames. Family vacations, especially annual trips to the cabin in Estes Park, Colorado, were among her most cherished family memories, reflecting her love for nature and God’s creation. A hike with the family to Mills Lake in RMNP, a picnic by a stream, a meal around the table, singing in church, and taking pictures were some of her favorite things.

In 1999, Barbara and Lee started a new adventure and retired to Gilbert, Arizona, joining the Trilogy retirement community and Central Christian Church. They treasured being close to family and forming new friendships enjoying palm trees, pool time with grandkids, bocce tournaments and beautiful desert sunsets.

Barbara was preceded in death by her husband, Lee; her son, Blaine Moats; and her brother, Bruce Stotts.

She is survived by her children: Brent Moats (Laura), Tari (Moats) Holtorf (Jon), and Chad Moats (Brenda); and by her daughter‑in‑law Jenny Moats.

Her grandchildren brought her immense joy: Amanda Janke (Stephen), and their children Cora and Callan; Kaylee Moats; Marissa Moats; Josie, Isaac, and Jakob Holtorf (Kaylee); Alex Foley (Josh); and Ellie Moats.

She is also survived by her brother Denny Stotts (Beth); her sister‑in‑law Barb “Angel” Stotts; and many extended family members and friends.

Barbara leaves behind a legacy of love, beauty, and faith. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Barbara will be laid to rest on Saturday, March 7th in Webster City, Iowa.  Memorial donations can be made in her honor to Central Christian Church, Gilbert, AZ.