Dolores Mae Faley

Dolores Mae Faley

Iowa City

Dolores Mae Faley, 96, passed away on October 3, 2024, in Iowa City, Iowa. The family thanks the extraordinary staff at Walden Place Senior Living and the caregivers at Iowa City Hospice. Special thanks to Valerie Monroe, Eddie Rodriguez, Diana Marquez, Emily Thompson, and Mirsad Rakovic.

Dolores was born on May 6, 1928, the daughter of Ralph and Catherine (Egan) Fox, in Orchard, Iowa. She went on to graduate from Orchard High School. Growing up, she was an enthusiastic athlete, competing in basketball and softball. Throughout her adult life she continued with her love of sports by playing golf and bowling. Dolores embraced every opportunity to stay active, like her avid participation in bean bag baseball at Walden Place, showcasing not only her athleticism but also her competitive spirit.

Dolores married Thomas E. Faley on May 17, 1948 in Waterloo, Iowa. She would go on to live there for over 70 years. The couple had two children, Debra and Jane. Dolores embodied the Golden Rule, treating others as she wished to be treated, which was evident in her selfless acts of service and unwavering empathy. She not only cared for and raised her own children, but also provided a safe and loving home to numerous children in need and a French exchange student. Dolores especially enjoyed her time volunteering for the Waterloo Catholic Schools, Hospice, St. Edward Church, and the Iowa Democratic Party.

Dolores’ homes were the epitome of neatness and order. Her tidy and aesthetically pleasing apartment became a popular destination for Walden Place tours. Every item in her home had a designated place, and her meticulous attention to detail was evident in the way she not only organized her own belongings, but also her daughters’ belongings while visiting their homes. Often, after Dolores’ departure, Debby and Jane would search for “misplaced” items.

Dolores enjoyed life and brought joy to those around her. She was the first to offer support to those in need, always ready with a listening ear, comforting hug and words of wisdom. With her friendly demeanor and outgoing nature, she effortlessly connected with everyone around her. Dolores approached each day with enthusiasm, leaving a trail of warmth and encouragement in her wake. Through her actions and words, she exemplified the profound impact of living a life guided by faith and love.

Dolores is survived by her daughters: Debra (Paul) Freiman and Jane (Paul) Smith; grandchildren Alex (Jennifer) Freiman, Andrea (Brian) Hixson, David (Shelby) Freiman, and Thomas (Hannah) Smith; and great-grandchildren Liam, Jacob, Connor, Lucy, and Zachary.

Dolores was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Thomas, in 1988; and her parents.

Pursuant to Dolores’ final wishes, a private family service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please honor Dolores’ kind spirit by helping someone in need; and please celebrate her life by treating someone to an ice cream sundae.

Online condolences at www.lensingfuneral.com.