Obituary for Sally Jo Lubavs (Dudley)
September 5, 1938 – July 28, 2024
Sally Jo Lubavs (Dudley), 85, of Urbandale, Iowa, passed away peacefully on July 28, 2024. A beloved wife, devoted mother, trailblazing educator, pioneer of the Des Moines and Johnston soccer programs, and outspoken patriot, Sally lived a life filled with compassion, resilience, and an enduring commitment to her family, community, and the world around her.
Born on September 5, 1938, in Guthrie Center, Iowa, Sally grew up surrounded by examples of hard work, determination, and innovation. Her mother owned Dudley’s Ready to Wear, a successful clothing store in Panora, Iowa, that operated until the 1950s, while her father owned an Oldsmobile dealership in town. Witnessing entrepreneurship on both sides of her family deeply shaped Sally’s independence, resilience, and strong work ethic. These early experiences inspired her own drive to pursue education, embrace opportunities, and create lasting change in her community.
Even as a young woman, Sally’s independence and strong will were remarkable. She grew up determined to build a life defined by education, opportunity, and community involvement—a trait that inspired countless people, including her own family, to embrace the power of self-education and perseverance.
Sally graduated from Guthrie Center High School in 1956, where she excelled in academics, music, athletics, and leadership. She was a member of the school band and an accomplished baritone saxophone player, performing in both the school orchestra and an advanced band she and her friends organized to replace the pep band. She was also an active reporter for the school newspaper, documenting and sharing the stories of her peers. In addition, Sally volunteered for countless school committees, contributing to the success of dances, events, and other programs.
The orchestra, led by one of her peers, performed popular songs such as:
Sincerely: A heartfelt ballad popularized by The McGuire Sisters, reaching number one on the Billboard charts in 1955.
Melody of Love: A romantic tune that became a hit for The Four Aces in the mid-1950s, celebrated for its nostalgic charm.
Muskrat Rumble: A lively jazz composition written by Kid Ory in 1926 and famously recorded by Louis Armstrong and His Hot Five, often adapted for high school orchestras.
No More: A soulful melody that resonated with audiences during the era, embodying themes of growth and reflection.
When We Come of Age: A reflective piece capturing the emotions of youth transitioning into adulthood, a fitting selection for high school musicians.
Sally also traveled frequently for school activities, including band and basketball trips. Notably, she attended a prestigious concert at Ames High School featuring world-renowned trumpet player Rafael Méndez, whose dazzling virtuosity left a lasting impression. Additionally, Sally was one of a select group of students chosen for a special school-sponsored roller-skating trip to Des Moines, a testament to her active participation and leadership in school life.
During summers, Sally attended Camp Foster on Lake Okoboji for two weeks, where she created cherished memories that fueled her love for outdoor adventures and teamwork.
In 1955, Sally was featured in the local newspaper, answering the question, “What do you really want out of life?” with the heartfelt response: “A good education and happiness.” Sally not only achieved both with determination and grace but also inspired others to value these aspirations.
Sally studied science at the University of Iowa in Iowa City from 1956 to 1961. She also pursued a master’s degree in education through Drake University, specializing in teaching children with behavioral and emotional challenges. Her dedication to education during this period laid the foundation for a lifelong career of helping others succeed.
While attending the University of Iowa, Sally met Andris “Andy” Lubavs, who was studying architecture. They married in 1960 and began their life together in Iowa. Around the time they started their family, the couple moved to a beautiful farm on the hill in Johnston, near the historic Ridgedale Cemetery, the boathouse, and Hyperion Field Club. Their farm was a classic Iowa farmhouse and became a special place for their children to grow up.
For 28 years, Sally dedicated her career to the Des Moines Public Schools, going above and beyond as a teacher who welcomed students into her home to provide them with a sense of family and stability. Her commitment to her students and her innovative approach to education left an indelible mark on her community.
Even in retirement, Sally remained devoted to her love of teaching by tutoring children who needed additional support. Her guidance gave countless students the tools and confidence to succeed academically, reflecting her lifelong belief in the transformative power of education.
Sally’s passion for leadership extended to sports, where she volunteered as the director of the Des Moines Soccer Club. As director, Sally was a pioneer in establishing soccer programs in Des Moines and Johnston schools, introducing the sport into school academic programs and community leagues. Thanks to her tireless efforts, Johnston Community School District and schools across Des Moines developed thriving soccer programs. Sally’s work helped bring soccer into the mainstream for Iowa students, and her son, Andy Jr., was among the early players to benefit from her dedication in Johnston. Sally’s groundbreaking leadership in Iowa soccer left a legacy that continues to inspire future generations of student-athletes.
Sally lived through and was deeply influenced by some of the most defining events in history. As a child, she experienced the challenges of World War II, which shaped her understanding of sacrifice and perseverance. She also witnessed the Civil Rights Movement, the tragic assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the Cold War, and the farm crisis of the 1980s, which deeply affected Iowa farmers and their communities. The September 11th attacks later in 2001 further reinforced Sally’s steadfast patriotism and her belief in the importance of strong leadership and resilience.
The Cold War had a particularly personal impact on Sally’s life. Her husband, Andy, fled Soviet-controlled Latvia and later used his expertise in architecture and construction to rebuild his family’s farm in Latvia after the country regained independence in the 1990s. Their shared experiences of overcoming adversity became central to their family values.
In addition to her teaching career, Sally also excelled as a real estate agent with Coldwell Banker from 1974 to 1988, balancing dual careers with grace and determination. She was a trailblazer, demonstrating what it meant to be a strong, independent woman long before such paths were commonplace.
Sally remained active and engaged well into her later years. At the 2016 Republican caucuses in Urbandale, Iowa, she delivered a fiery speech in support of Donald Trump, recognizing his leadership potential even before his first term. Drawing on her experiences of living through World War II, she spoke passionately about the dangers posed by foreign powers and inspired the room with her belief in his vision for America, earning a standing ovation.
Sally’s compassion for others extended into her personal life, where she became known for leaving heartfelt messages on obituary pages for friends, colleagues, and even acquaintances. She believed in ensuring everyone felt seen and valued, even in their final tributes.
Sally is survived by her children, Mara, and Kris, and their families; her grandchildren and great- grandchildren, who brought her immense joy. She was preceded in death by her husband, Andris “Andy” Lubavs, in 2005 and her son Andy Jr. in 2016. Sally’s love and influence extended far beyond her immediate family, touching countless friends, colleagues, students, communities, and community members, all of whom feel the depth of her loss.
Sally Jo Lubavs (Dudley) lived with passion, conviction, and an unyielding belief in the power of love, community, and education. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all whose lives she touched.
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