Deanna McLain Jennings, age 86, of Emerson, Iowa, passed away Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at her home. Deanna was born September 23, 1938, in Red Oak, Iowa, the daughter of Dean Waldon and Gertrude (Davis) McLain. She attended school in Emerson and was involved in basketball and heavily involved in 4-H. Deanna graduated from Emerson High School in 1956 and attended Commercial Extension Business School in Omaha for one year. She was united in marriage to John J. Jennings on March 30, 1962, in Red Oak, Iowa. Deanna worked for the Mills County ASCS office from 1957-1967 before becoming a full-time farm wife raising her children, helping on the farm, and taking care of her parents and brother for many years. She was a former member of Champion Hill Church and currently a member of the Shenandoah Presbyterian Church. She was active in Women's Circle at both churches. The highlight of her life was being a grandmother and being able to fulfill her dream of living on the family farm her entire life. Deanna always said her hobby was cooking.

Preceding her in death were her parents and grandparents: Otis and Maude Davis and Joseph W. and Hariett Kochersperger McLain. Survivors include her husband: John J. Jennings of Emerson, IA; children: Jeffrey J. Jennings of Emerson, IA; Nancy Zehr and husband Rod of Mason City, IA; and Jack Dean Jennings of Emerson, IA; grandchildren: Andrew J. Zehr and wife Rose of Orange City, IA and Sarah E. Zehr of Mason City, IA; and many other relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 AM Tuesday, January 21, 2025, at the LeRette Funeral Chapel in Red Oak. Burial will be in the Emerson Cemetery. Visitation with the family will be held from 5-7 PM Monday, January 20, 2025, at the LeRette Funeral Chapel. Memorials are suggested to the Gideons.

LeRette Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.