CHARLES CITY, IOWA — Jeffrey Paul Sisson, 70, of Charles City, died peacefully Tuesday, July 21, 2026, leaving behind decades of leadership, mentorship and service to the community he loved.
Visitation was held Thursday evening, July 23, at the Riverside Cemetery Chapel in Charles City. An outdoor memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, July 24, at Victory Park near the suspension bridge. Riverside Cemetery in Charles City is listed as the cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Floyd County Historical Society or the Riverside Cemetery Association.
Jeff was born May 7, 1956, in Waterloo, the son of Paul and Beverly (Rinker) Sisson. He graduated from Charles City High School in 1974 and went on to become a prominent banker, entrepreneur, mentor and civic leader.
According to his obituary, Jeff’s greatest legacy may be his unwavering commitment to Charles City. He believed deeply in the community’s future and generously offered his time, experience and enthusiasm to projects intended to make the city stronger for generations to come.
Jeff served as mayor of Charles City from 1994 through 1995. He also served as president of the Riverside Cemetery Association and the North Cedar Aviation Authority.
His community involvement extended to the Lions and Elks clubs, and he was a dedicated supporter of the Floyd County Museum and Historical Society. Preserving and sharing local history became one of his passions, and he helped bring that history to life each year for eighth-grade students.
Jeff also devoted countless hours to some of Charles City’s best-known community traditions. He assisted with America’s Hometown Fourth of July Celebration, Party in the Park and several RAGBRAI events that brought residents and visitors together.
Young people also benefited from his leadership. For many seasons, Jeff coached eighth-grade boys’ basketball at Charles City Junior High, mentoring young athletes with wisdom, integrity and encouragement.
Whether serving on a committee, supporting a civic project or offering advice to a friend or colleague, Jeff earned a reputation as a trusted mentor, respected leader and steadfast advocate for Charles City.
His service was driven by a desire to help the community prosper. He championed economic growth and civic engagement while continually looking for opportunities to strengthen Charles City and preserve its traditions.
Jeff is survived by his daughter, Emily, her husband, Shane, and their son, Oliver; sister Jody Vrieze and her husband, Jon; brother Tom and his wife, Sherri; nephews Ben, Luke, Isaac and Elijah; and niece Hannah “Rose.”
He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Beverly Sisson, and his niece, Ellie Anne Poolman.
Fullerton-Hage Funeral Home is handling arrangements. To read more and see the full obituary, please click here.
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