Arla Jean Grady

Arla Jean Grady, 76, of Fort Dodge, IA, died Friday, November 1, 2024, at her home. A celebration of life gathering will be held from 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM on Thursday, November 14, 2024, at the Historic Bruce Funeral Home, 923 1st Avenue South. Memorials may be directed to the family. Arrangements are with Historic Bruce Funeral Home of Fort Dodge. 

Arla was born April 22, 1948, in Charles City, IA, the daughter of Dale and Shirley (Vankley) Marvin. She attended Fort Dodge Senior High. On April 30, 1967, she was united in marriage to Ronald Lee Grady at Riverside Church in Fort Dodge. In addition to being a homemaker, she had various jobs over the years including CNA, Casey’s General Stores and Electrolux in Webster City (25 years) until her retirement in 2011. Arla enjoyed riding horses and was a proud Rodeo Mom, dedicating much of her life to supporting her children as they participated in rodeos across the country. She contributed her time and efforts as the Secretary for Little Britches Rodeo, demonstrating her commitment to the community and the sport she loved. She was also a valued past member of the Otho River Valley Saddle Club, where her passion for equestrian activities flourished. The bond she shared with her pony, "Elvis," mirrored her lively spirit and her love for all things equestrian. Arla also enjoyed taking care of her dogs "Mandy" and "Babe". Above all, Arla loved spending time with her grandchildren. She was their biggest supporter, attending every sporting event - always cheering them on from the sidelines and celebrating their achievements with unmatched pride and joy. 

Arla is survived by her husband of 57 years: Ron Grady of Fort Dodge; 2 children: Michael Grady and wife Andrea of Manson, IA and Ty Grady and wife Tonia of Williams, IA; 4 grandchildren: Lindsay Sanbothe and husband Nathan, Ashlee Bangasser and husband Bob, Garrett Grady and MacKenzy Grady; 1 great grandchild: Isabelle; 7 siblings: David Marvin and wife Shelly of Boone, IA, Peggy Brinton and husband Paul of Nevada, IA, Vickie Crimmins and husband Chuck of Fort Dodge, Leann Terranova of Fort Dodge, Mark Marvin and wife Janey of Fort Dodge, Jolene Consier and husband Doug of Ellsworth, IA and Kristy Hilbert and husband David of Fort Dodge; and brother-in-law: Chuck Knoblauch of Des Moines, IA. She is also survived by her nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and sister: Tracy Knoblauch.

Arla Jean Grady touched the lives of many through her unwavering support, love for family, and dedication to the rodeo community.