Raleina Louise Abe of Waterloo, Iowa, passed away surrounded by her family on Monday, September 7, 2026, at the age of 79.

Louise was born on October 27, 1946, in Louisville, Kentucky, to Walter and Mary (Smith) Humphrey. Her family later moved to Pompano Beach, Florida, where she grew up and became a proud graduate of Pompano Beach High School’s Class of 1964. After high school, Louise worked for a building contractor, where an unexpected introduction would shape the rest of her life.

In 1972, Harold Abe, a local pool business owner, came in and tried to leave his business card for her. After six months of his determined pursuit, Louise finally gave in, and the two were married in May of 1973 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Together they built a life that would span more than five decades of marriage, companionship, and devotion.

Together they made their way to North Carolina, where Louise began working as a secretary for a high school. Their life’s path took them to Wyoming, where she worked for the University of Wyoming for many years.

In 2009, Louise and Harold made their way to Waterloo, Iowa, where they settled into a new chapter of life together. Louise found joy in traveling, spending time outdoors, and reading. She loved to cook, especially for her family, and no matter where the gathering was held, Louise could be counted on to make sure everyone was fed with care and love. Above all, she treasured being with her family, and her grandchildren held an especially treasured place in her heart.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Walter and Mary Humphrey, as well as numerous aunts and uncles.

Louise’s memory will be cherished by her beloved husband of 53 years, Harold Abe of Waterloo; their son, Jason (Jennifer) Abe of Dysart; her sister, Mary Humphrey and her niece, Barbara (Joel) Stover, all of Tuscumbia, Alabama; her grandchildren, Bradyn Abe of Cedar Falls, Jarrett Abe, stationed with the Army at Fort Stewart, Georgia, Brooklyn Abe of Cedar Falls, and Kason Abe and Gavin Abe of Clutier; and her great-grandchild, Leia Scott of Dysart. She also leaves behind many family members and friends who will remember her warmth, her steady presence, and the love she shared so freely.

A Celebration of Life will be held on September 19th, 2026 @ 02:00 at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses at 1530 Pleasant Valley Dr., Waterloo, Ia.