Obituary

Terry Jo Kile, 81, of Des Moines, Iowa, passed away at home in Des Moines, Iowa on June 21, 2025.

Terry was born on June 10, 1944, to Catherine (Malloy) and Arthur Kile. A lifelong learner and educator, Terry graduated from Altoona High School in 1962. She went on to earn a BS in Accounting from Upper Iowa University, an MS in Educational Psychology from the University of Iowa, a PhD in Higher Education from Americus University, and was admitted to the League of Chiropractic Philosophers at Palmer College of Chiropractic.

Terry’s professional life was filled with purpose and passion. She worked as a self-employed bookkeeper and tax preparer in her early career and retired from Palmer College of Chiropractic, where she served as the Coordinator of Institutional Planning and Research. She also taught as an adjunct professor, sharing her expertise in both psychology and accounting.

Terry’s many interests included a deep love for horses and was 1959 Queen of Polk County Sheriff’s Posse Rodeo. She was also a certified painting instructor in ceramics and taught many students brush techniques, a Reiki Master and teacher, and a Certified Hypnotherapist. Her creativity, kind approach to teaching, and commitment to healing arts touched many lives.

Terry was married to Austin Morgan in 1963 and had two children, Jefferson and Ann. Then later married James Wilson in 1974 and gained a daughter, LuAnn. She is survived by her son, Jefferson Morgan; her daughters, Ann Morgan Reed and LuAnn (Mark) Sorter; seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Arthur "John" Kile, and her sister, Catherine Sue Kile.

A graveside service will be held on September 22, 2025, at Warren Powers Cemetery at 1:00 p.m., with a Celebration of Life to follow at a location to be announced. In lieu of flowers, the family would like for donations to go towards Terry's funeral expenses as an expression of sympathy.

Terry Jo Kile will be remembered for her wisdom, her dedication to education and healing, and the love she gave to her family.

Online Condolences are welcome at www.IlesCares.com.

Arrangements by Iles Westover Chapel.

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