When I learned that Jesup Volleyball Player Addison Staebell had lost her mother, Sarah Staebell, it really affected me. I have lost someone close before, so reading her story made me reflect on my own experiences. Sarah died at 49, surrounded by her family. She had battled colon cancer for over five years and passed away on December 1, 2025.
Her fight was lengthy. She struggled with cancer for five and a half years and even received the Cancer Survivor of the Year award in 2024. This shows her strength, and I believe those around her learned a lot from her bravery.
Sarah graduated from Don Bosco High School in 1994. She then built a successful career based on her passion for making homes beautiful and organized. Along with her husband, Tony, she ran Staebell Design, a thriving business focused on interior decorating, space organization, and custom painting. Her work won the Best of the Best Award for three consecutive years, an achievement few can claim.
Before that, she worked with her mother, Dona, at Cobblestone Creek in Evansdale. This highlights how much she valued family and teamwork.
One message someone posted about her really resonated with me. They said heaven got an angel, and she would probably start decorating the gates before even stepping inside. I found it touching and sweet, and it made me smile.
Sarah Staebell’s Life Filled With Love and Family Moments
Sarah Jolene Staebell was born on August 3, 1976, in Waterloo, Iowa. She was the daughter of Jeffrey Tix and Dona Klein. Her life was rich with family ties and lasting memories.
She passed away peacefully at 49 after a nearly six-year battle with colon cancer. Her family says she never lost her spirit. She continued to love, laugh, and care for those around her.
She was first married to Allen Charley and had a daughter, Samantha, in 1995. Their marriage later ended. Then, she married Tony Staebell on November 10, 2001, at Immaculate Conception Church in Gilbertville. Together, they had three children. Family meant everything to her.
She always supported her kids in everything, from school events to sports to celebrations and more. She kept her home tidy, and everyone eagerly anticipated her Christmas decorations. Christmas was her favorite time of year, and she worked hard to make it memorable for everyone.
She cherished being a grandmother. Walker and Emery brought her immense joy. Stories like this remind me of the special happiness grandparents provide. She found strength in their laughter, and they are part of the legacy she left behind.
Even while facing illness, she held onto hope. She was named Cancer Survivor of the Year in 2024. She also supported Relay for Life, using her own story to raise awareness.
She once shared how her symptoms began in April. She visited doctors multiple times, but they often dismissed her without proper answers. It wasn’t until an emergency room visit out of state that a scan finally revealed the cancer. She was transferred immediately to Iowa City for treatment. Reading about this made me feel sad, as many people experience the same situation and are not taken seriously at first.
To support the family, MC Ink Screen Printing launched an online store and donated part of the profits to them. This shows how much the community cared for her.
Sarah is survived by her husband, Tony, her children, Samantha, Luke, Lane, and Addison, and her grandchildren, Walker and Emery. She is also remembered by her mother, Dona, and stepfather, Rodney; her brothers, Jesse and Jared; her in-laws, Gerald and Vicki; her brothers-in-law, Scott and Mark; her sister-in-law, Erin; her cousin and close friend, Shannon Frost; and many nieces, nephews, and extended family members.
Those who passed before her include her father, Jeffrey Tix; her grandparents; her uncle and aunt, Bob and Geri; and her cousin, Brett.
The family will welcome visitors on Sunday, December 7, 2025, at Locke at Tower Park in Waterloo. The funeral service will be held on Monday, December 8, at Prairie Lakes Church in Cedar Falls.
The Staebell family expressed gratitude to everyone who supported Sarah throughout her journey. Anyone who wishes can share memories or messages on the funeral home website.
Rest in peace, Sarah Tix Staebell. You may also be interested in: Springtown TX Parents Worried After Coach Accused Of Misconduct Still Coaching In Local League
