Deola High, 96, of Cedar Rapids, passed away on Thursday, July 24, 2025, at the West Ridge Care Center. Visitation will be held from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. on Saturday, August 16, 2025, at Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church, in the Fellowship Hall.

Deola was born on October 21, 1928, in Topeka Kansas, to the union of George W. Davis Sr. and Olie (Wilson) Davis. She attended Washburn University, in Topeka Kansas to pursue her dream of nursing. Instead of continuing on that path, she married the love of her life, Jack Edward High Sr. That union lasted until the time of her passing.

Deola was always very active in her community. She served on the YWCA board, was a member of the League of Women Voters, an advocate for the Heritage Agency Resident Program, and was involved with the Cedar Rapids Criterion Club.

In the late 1950's, Deola joined the Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church in Cedar Rapids where she began her service to the Lord. Deola served in various positions throughout her 65 years of devotion. She was Secretary of Iowa Educational Baptist Congress of Christian Education; Pastor and Church secretary; a Sunday School Teacher; Superintendent of Sunday School; she was on the Mothers and Deaconess Board; and she was a member of Tuesday Mission. She believed in being dedicated and committed to doing the work of the Lord.

Deola leaves to cherish her memories, her beloved husband of 78 years, Jack E. High Sr.; children Deborah High (IA), Jack E. High, Jr. (Susan) (IA), Denise (Patrick) Finney (GA), Jeffrey High (NV); special daughter Kimber Jones (IA); grandchildren Sean Pendarvis (IA), Jack E. High III (IA), Antar Finney (SC), Tarra Finney (NC); special grandson Minister Justin Jones (IA); many bonus grandchildren and a host of great grandchildren and friends.

She was proceeded in death by her parents George and Olie Davis; her brothers George Davis Jr., Leslie Davis, and most recently her brother Aaron Davis.

Memorials may be directed to the Youth Ministry at Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church, located at 6621 C Ave. NE Cedar Rapids, IA. 52402.

The High family would like to extend a thank you to Brosh Chapel for assisting during this difficult time and the Nurses at The West Ridge Care Center for taking such excellent care of Deola. We also would like to thank those who reached out to us. May God continue to bless each of you.