Edna Mae Fuller

Edna Mae Fuller

Mae Fuller was a shining light who touched others with her faith, loving kindness, and compassion. She will be remembered for her ability to help others see the best in themselves and for her selflessness and generosity. Whether it was through the work in her church and community, her welcoming nature, or her ever-present willingness to lend a hand to those in need, Mae gave people around her a glimpse of God’s love, mercy and forgiveness.

Mae was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and friend, serving others in countless ways. She was forever willing to reach out a hand to the needy and the poor. She would literally give the coat off her back to help someone else. Her favorite saying, which became her life’s purpose, was “you never lose anything by being good to someone.”

For more than 66 years, Mae shared her journey with her wonderful husband Lowell. The home they made together always had an open door for anyone who might happen to stop by needing a cup of coffee, a word of encouragement or a helping hand. She was a legendary hostess, cook and baker who enjoyed sharing those gifts and extending hospitality. In her later years, she invited everyone to call her “grandma” and became a grandmother figure to many, sharing hugs and encouraging words.

Born Nov. 15, 1924 in Iowa City to James and Edith Looker, Mae married Lowell in 1942 and the couple had two daughters. After raising their children, Mae had a career in caring for the elderly and helping them remain independent. She loved this work, viewed it as a mission, and developed many close friendships with those she helped. Mae enjoyed teaching classes about service work at DMACC. She volunteered at Bidwell Riverside Center and enjoyed spending time with family and friends. For more than 50 years, Mae was a member of Sheridan Park United Methodist Church where she served in many ways. Mae had unwavering faith in God and her life was truly an example of that faith.

Mae was preceded in death by her husband Lowell Fuller, and grandson Raymond C. Burns. She is survived by her daughters Marjorie White of Urbandale and Linda Sandy (Garry) of Spring Lake, Michigan., and grandchildren, Rita Fleener of Des Moines, Trisha Ostrowski of Mooresville, North Carolina, and Eric Sandy of Spring Lake, Michigan, eight great grandchildren, and five great-great grandchildren.

Mae passed away peacefully on Oct. 7, 2018. Funeral services will be held on Monday Oct. 22 at Sheridan Park United Methodist Church, 4100 East Sheridan Avenue in Des Moines. Visitation will be from 10-11 a.m. followed by the funeral service. Interment will be at Laurel Hill Cemetery. Memorial contributions can be made to Sheridan Park United Methodist Church in Des Moines.

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