Ida Mae Slocum of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Dies at 88
Ida Mae Slocum, a longtime resident of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, died on October 12, 2023, according to a statement from Olson’s Funeral Home. She was 88 years old.
Life and Legacy
Slocum was born on May 15, 1935, in Sioux Falls, according to her obituary. She spent her career as a school librarian, retiring in 1998 after 35 years of service at Lincoln High School. Colleagues described her as “a pillar of the community” who “fostered a love of reading in generations of students.”
A memorial service is planned for October 20 at 11 a.m. at First Presbyterian Church, with a reception to follow at the Sioux Falls Community Center. Burial will take place at Greenwood Cemetery, per the funeral home’s announcement.
Family and Survivors
Survivors include her daughter, Linda Slocum of Rapid City, and her son, James Slocum of Sioux Falls, along with three grandchildren. A GoFundMe page has been launched to support the family, according to the obituary.
Memorial Contributions
The family has requested donations in Slocum’s name to the Sioux Falls Public Library Foundation, a cause she supported throughout her life.
“Ida’s dedication to education and her warmth as a mentor left a lasting impact,” said Sarah Johnson, a former student and current library director. “She will be deeply missed.”
Details About the Obituary
The obituary was published by Olson’s Funeral Home, a Sioux Falls-based firm with over 70 years of experience in the region. The funeral home’s website confirms the details of the service and burial arrangements.
Why This Matters
Slocum’s life reflects the values of community service and education, themes that resonate in Sioux Falls, where public institutions like the library play a central role in local culture. Her career aligns with broader trends in mid-20th-century education, where librarians often served as both information custodians and community leaders.
Next Steps
The family has not announced plans for a formal memorial service beyond the October 20 event. Further updates are expected to be posted on the Sioux Falls Public Library Foundation’s website.