Jodi Lynn (Agard) Houser

Jodi Lynn (Agard) Houser
February 20, 1975 – June 24, 2025

Jodi Lynn (Agard) Houser, 50, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 24, 2025.

Born on February 20, 1975, in Ames, Iowa, to Don Agard and Kathy Irving. Jodi was raised in Ankeny, Iowa, where she developed a love for dance, participating in classes and performances for 13 years. She was also a proud member of her high school color guard and graduated from Ankeny High School in 1993.

Following high school, Jodi pursued her passion for helping others by earning her nursing degree from Des Moines Area Community College. She began her nursing career at Iowa Methodist Hospital, where she cared deeply for her patients. In 2003, Jodi relocated to Owatonna, Minnesota, with her two daughters, Breeana and Brooke, where she continued her service in healthcare. She was nurse for Steele County, the Owatonna School District, and Federated Insurance.

Jodi was a dedicated and loving mother who poured her heart into raising her daughters and supporting them in all their endeavors.  Jodi also carried the quiet heartbreak of losing a son during pregnancy—an ache that remained with her always.

 She found great joy in attending her daughters’ events, spending time with her family and friends, and creating lasting memories with those she loved most. In February 2025, Jodi experienced one of the proudest moments of her life when she became a grandmother for the first time.

Her strength and resilience were an inspiration to everyone who knew her. She bravely faced multiple battles with cancer, enduring each challenge with grace, determination, and an unbreakable spirit. Even as her body weakened, her heart remained strong, and her love for her family never wavered.

Jodi leaves behind her beloved daughters Breeana and Brooke, grandson Lucas, her parents Kathy Irving of Mount Ayr and Don Agard of Ankeny; brother Bret (Desi) of Clive; Half- Brothers Jay (Ashli) of Adel and Shon (Laura) of Johnston; six nephews: Jacob, Cole, Kenten, Caeben, Ethan and Owen; two nieces Laiken and Brylin. She was proceeded in death by her son, grandparents Arthur and Phyllis Smith, Kenneth and Lucille Agard, and stepmother Lorna.

Her life was a testament to love, service, and strength. Jodi’s wide circle of family, friends, and former colleagues will forever remember her warmth, kindness, and unwavering courage. She will be deeply missed and forever loved.

A celebration of life will be planned, and details will be shared with family and friends when final arrangements  are made.