Kristen Stone Obituary: Bethany Life Nurse and Mother Killed in Ames, Iowa, Domestic Violence Case

Kristen Stone, a Bethany Life employee and mother of three in Ames, Iowa, was found dead in her home in October 2026. Police charged her husband with first-degree murder as the investigation continued.

Kristen Stone’s Death in Ames, Iowa

The woman identified in recent reports as Kristen, a nurse and employee of Bethany Life in Story City, Iowa, was Kristen Stone. She was found dead inside her family home in Ames on Thursday, October 29, 2026, after police received a welfare-check request from her mother.

Ames police reported that Kristen had suffered severe trauma. Investigators later said the evidence led them to suspect that another person was responsible for her death. Her husband, Richard Stone, was subsequently charged with first-degree murder.

The case has deeply affected the Ames community, particularly Kristen’s family, friends, colleagues and the people who knew her through her work in nursing.

A Dedicated Nurse and Mother Remembered by Friends

Kristen worked at Bethany Life, a nursing home and senior-care organization in Story City, for more than two years. Bethany Life CEO Kim Schilling confirmed her employment and said that her colleagues would miss her.

Friends remembered Kristen as a welcoming mother who made her home a gathering place for her children and their friends. They also described her as someone who listened to others and made people feel appreciated.

She reportedly loved animals and cared for a variety of pets, including dogs, cats, chickens, quail and snakes. Her friends spoke warmly of her dedication to motherhood, kindness and willingness to support those around her.

Kristen Stone’s Three Daughters and Family

Kristen was the mother of three daughters, who are now receiving support from relatives and members of their community. Friends Mackensie Allen and Lauren Loonsfoot organized a fundraiser to help provide for the children and their caregivers.

Sawyer Elementary School also shared a message acknowledging the family’s loss and encouraging the community to support Kristen’s daughters. A memorial was placed outside the family home in Ames.

Her friends’ public tributes have focused on the importance of supporting the children and preserving the memory of their mother.

Investigation and Charges Against Richard Stone

Ames police identified Kristen’s husband, Richard Stone, 47, as the suspect in her death. Investigators obtained a warrant charging him with first-degree murder on October 30, 2026.

Police said Richard was located during a traffic stop that afternoon. Before officers could take him into custody, he shot himself inside his vehicle. Emergency responders provided medical assistance, and he was transported to a Des Moines-area hospital. As of November 2, police said he remained in critical condition.

Authorities had not publicly released an official cause of Kristen’s death or a motive in the reports reviewed. Although the supplied article describes the circumstances as domestic violence, the investigation and criminal charge should be reported with care. Richard Stone is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

A Community Rallies Around Kristen’s Children

Kristen’s death has prompted an outpouring of grief in Ames and among people connected to Bethany Life. Her friends and neighbours have spoken about the shock of losing someone they considered a caring mother and friend.

The fundraiser organized for her daughters reflects the community’s effort to provide practical support as the family faces an unimaginable change. The support of relatives, friends, school families and colleagues may remain especially important as the children navigate their loss.

Heartfelt condolences go to Kristen’s daughters, extended family, friends and Bethany Life colleagues. May they find comfort in the memories they shared and strength through the support surrounding them.