Obituary for Clarence Edwin Stills

Clarence Edwin Stills, known to many as “Rocky,” passed away peacefully with his wife by his side on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at Mercy Hospital in Des Moines, Iowa. He was 88 years old.

Clarence was born on May 9, 1937, in Corydon, Iowa, to Hezie and Helen (Stallings) Stills. He spent his early years in Buffalo, Missouri; Leon, Iowa; and Jamison, Iowa, where he began his grade school education. The family later moved to New Virginia, Iowa, where he continued his schooling and graduated from New Virginia High School.

The same week he graduated, Clarence enlisted in the United States Navy. He served four years as a machinist mate in the engine room and was stationed on the East Coast. During his service, he traveled halfway around the world three times and, for a period of time, was assigned to the same ship as his brother Kenneth.

After his military service, Clarence returned to New Virginia where he met Phyllis Turnbull. After getting married in August of 1961, the couple settled in New Virginia for 43 years. Clarence worked in various careers until 1972, when he purchased the Crabtree Produce building. There, he opened and operated a plumbing, heating, and air conditioning business, with Phyllis working alongside him in the shop. After retiring, they moved to St. Charles where they lived for the rest of his life.

A respected and active member of the community, Clarence served as the chief of the local volunteer fire department, was a trustee of his church, and a member of the New Virginia Lions Club and American Legion Post 281.

Clarence had many hobbies throughout his life. He enjoyed bowling, hunting, softball, golfing (continuing even as his health declined thanks to the support of his golfing friends), and visiting casinos. In retirement, he and Phyllis enjoyed wintering with friends in Texas.

Clarence is survived by his devoted wife of 64 years, Phyllis (Turnbull) Stills; daughter Tamera (Stills) Bice; grandchildren Keith (Paige) Bice, Christopher Moore, and Cassondra Moore; great-grandson Jaxson Bice; siblings Kenneth (Judy) Stills, Butch Stills, Charlie (Jody) Stills, and Linda (David) Ballard; as well as a brother-in-law, 2 sisters-in-law, nieces, and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his daughter Michelle (Stills) Moore; son-in-law David Bice; great-grandson David John Bice; parents Hezie and Helen Stills; in-laws Homer and Marvel (Town) Turnbull; brother Richard Stills; and sisters Marilyn Garner and Kathryn Ransom.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at 1:00 followed by a celebration of life service at 2:00 at New Virginia Methodist Church, 301 West Street, New Virginia, Iowa.

In lieu of flowers the family request memorial be made to the New Virginia Fire and Rescue.

Clarence will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered for his dedication to his family, community, and country.