Yolanda “Londa” Jean (Stymiest) Carlson passed away peacefully on Monday, January 12, 2026, at Benedictine Healthcare Center in New Brighton, Minnesota, at the age of 93. Funeral services will be held 11:00 a.m. Thursday, February 12 at Redeemer Church in Fridley, Minnesota, with visitation one hour prior. Interment will be in the Redwood Falls Cemetery at a later date. Redwood Valley Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Londa was born February 28, 1932, to Chester and Inez (Tobey) Stymiest and grew up in the Warren, Minnesota area with her older sister, Gail. After graduating from high school, she pursued her dream of teaching, earning her degree from Bemidji State. She loved teaching first grade and found great joy in helping children learn and grow. On August 16, 1952, she married Orville “Bud” Carlson. Together they made their home in Dovray, Minnesota, where they raised four daughters: Nancy, Carma, Terri, and Wendy. Londa was deeply rooted in her Christian faith and was always an active member of her church. She taught Sunday school, Bible classes, and English as a second language, and she lived out her faith in Christ through  generous service to others. An avid reader, bowler, camper, seamstress, and volunteer, Londa was also a passionate  advocate for individuals with disabilities. She was known for her sense of humor, welcoming home, and tender love for animals. In 1972, Londa and Bud moved to Norfolk, Nebraska, making many dear friends and enjoying the new social opportunities of a larger community. Six years later they returned to Westbrook, Minnesota until retirement. The couple then moved to Arkansas, where Londa enjoyed hosting card parties, Bible studies, and learning to play Mahjong! She volunteered in local schools, and traveled extensively. Favorite destinations included Cameroon and the Holy Land. Eventually, the couple returned to Redwood Falls, Minnesota to be closer to family. They celebrated 62 years of marriage! In her later years, Londa cherished her role as “Gigi” to her great-grandchildren, delighting in games, laughter, and handing out quarters saved from her Bingo winnings.

Londa is survived by her daughters Nancy Revier, Carma (Bob) Ochu, and Wendy (Scott) Dieter; grandchildren Jeremiah (Nina) Dagel, Jody (Dan) Blackburn, Abby (Eric) Sahnow, Sarah (Matt) Haggerty, and Emily Dieter; ten great-grandchildren; sister-in-law Phyllis Vosberg; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Bud; daughter Terri; son-in-law Gary; sister Gail; and sister-in-law Mary Jane “Jeannie.”