Lyla Marie (Pigsley) Halstead

Lyla Marie (Pigsley) Halstead, 72, of North Liberty, passed away suddenly in her sleep on Saturday, January 22, 2022. 

Lyla was born on Saturday, April 2, 1949, to Benjamin (Sr) and Mabel (Swolley) Pigsley during an early spring snowstorm. She was the youngest of 6 children. Lyla married and later divorced, Paul Edward Halstead, Sr. She had 5 children; Paul (Deb) Halstead of Columbus Junction, IA, Tom (Jaylene) Halstead of Washington, IA, Melissa Halstead of Port Orange, FL, Carrie Benson of North Liberty, IA, and Ben Hanks of Solon, IA.

Lyla attended High School in West Liberty, IA. She was a free spirit who loved to dance. While in high school, she and her sister took a train to Philadelphia, PA to dance on American Bandstand. Lyla worked for a time as a professional dancer and lived in several states during her life, but always returned home to Iowa. She was also an avid NASCAR fan and a master of crochet. Those who visited her were always welcomed with a pot of coffee and a snack. 

Lyla loved her family fiercely and was loved as fiercely in return. She lived her life with strong will and didn’t fear challenges. Lyla was a beautiful person with a fabulous sense of humor. She was also a boldly honest person who was not afraid to let people know what she thought or how she felt. This earned her much respect from those who were blessed to be part of her treasured circle.

Lyla was preceded in death by her parents; sisters, Tereesa and Frances; brothers, Benjamin and Prince; grandsons, Bobby Lee Halstead and Xavier Halstead; and ex-husband, Paul Halstead. She is survived by her brother, Harry Pigsley; children, daughters-in-law, 14 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren (as well as 2 on the way), numerous bonus children, friends, and extended family. 

PRIVATE SERVICES will be held on Thursday, January 27, 2022 starting at 9:00 am. A public Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, April 2, 2022, at Wink’s Bar & Grill in West Liberty, IA. Online condolences may be shared at www.fryfuneralhome.com.

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