06/10/2026
Robin Noelle Delury, 58, of Des Moines, Iowa passed away peacefully at home on June 26 following an eight-month battle with glioblastoma.
Robin was born to parents Jim and Betty Long on Christmas Day 1967 in Oskaloosa, Iowa and raised in Knoxville. She often spoke with joy and appreciation about her idyllic childhood, like carefree summer days spent riding her bike and going to the public pool.
She was a talented gymnast and volleyball player, serving as the starting libero on the Knoxville High School varsity team. During these years, she formed a close-knit group of friends that remained an important part of her life. Together they spent their teenage years making memories—cruising “Lake Loops” and all manner of fun and craziness.
Robin graduated from Knoxville High School in 1986 and enrolled at the University of Iowa that fall alongside several of her friends from Knoxville. After exploring majors in Theater and Communications, Robin eventually settled on a major in Nursing, much to her parents’ relief. She graduated from the University of Iowa in December 1992 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing.
Following graduation, Robin began her career at Children’s Mercy Hospital in Kansas City, working in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU). In a role that demands both skill and compassion, Robin quickly distinguished herself as a talented nurse with a deep passion for caring for children—qualities that defined her entire career.
In November 1996, Robin met fellow Kansas Citian Chris Delury in Des Moines. Following a courtship that notably included a first-date at a private Kansas City Chiefs party, they were married in Knoxville, Iowa on September 19, 1998. They made their home in the Kansas City area and welcomed their daughters Celia Rose in May 2001, followed by Harper Jo in August 2004.
Later that year, the family moved to the Des Moines area to be closer to extended family. After dedicating time to raising her young children, Robin returned to nursing at Blank Children’s Hospital in the PICU. She later brought her skills and compassion to Des Moines Public Schools, serving as a school nurse at Cowles Montessori, Ruby Van Meter, and Carver Elementary. She also served as a nurse consultant with Heartland Area Education Agency, supporting and mentoring school nurses across the region.
Robin was a fun-loving spirit who liked to laugh and have a good time with friends and family. Music was an integral part of her life. She could name the artist and song title of just about any song from the 1970’s after just a couple of notes and especially enjoyed attending live music performances.
She was an outdoor enthusiast who enjoyed bike rides, hikes, walks with the dog and the annual family vacation trip to Okoboji. She was also a very talented decorator with her own distinctive style and would often repaint every room in their home.
Wherever life took her—Knoxville, Iowa City, Kansas City, or Des Moines—Robin formed lasting friendships. She deeply valued these relationships and made a point to nurture them over the years. The outpouring of love and support during her illness reflected just how much she meant to so many.
Robin’s family is devastated by her loss but deeply grateful for the time and memories they shared with her. She was a beloved mother, wife, daughter and sister.
Robin leaves behind her husband, Chris Delury; her altdaughters, Celia Delury and Harper Delury; her father, Jim Long; and her brother, Kevin Long (Heidi). She was preceded in death by her mother Betty Long, whom she missed dearly.
A “Robin-worthy” Celebration of Life will be held at the family home on July 11th where friends and family can share stories, memories, laughter and tears. Details are still being worked out, but you can be sure there will be music and a few disco balls. Details for the celebration will be posted on Robin’s Caringbridge.org webpage.
Arrangements by Des Moines Cremation.