A Time to Be Born: Life for Iona began January 19, 1928 in San Augustine, Texas. She was the ninth child born to Rafe and Dollie Lee Wilson. She attended San Augustine Public Schools.

A Time for work: Iona enjoyed being productive,she worked at Tyler Junior College as a cook, R.L. Davis in the sewing Department and College Cleaners, then she found her calling as "Second Mom" to the McGee and the Barbin families.

A time for Marriage: Iona moved to Tyler, Texas in 1956 where she met and married the love of her life. Willie Charles Ates, in 1958.

A Time for Worship: She united with the Mt. Dena Baptist Church and was baptized at an early age. After transitioning to Tyler, she joined the True Vine Baptist Church and was active as Devotion leader, member of Mission Society, member of Mass Choir and the M.P. Timms Chorus. She served as President of the M.P. Timms Chorus for many years. She served faithfully until her health declined.

A Time to Reunite: She is preceded in death by her Husband, Willie Charles Ates; Parents; Rafe and Dollie Wilson; Brother; Willie (Bill) Wilson, Eugene Wilson, Curtis (Buck) Wilson, Leonard Wilson, Ray Wilson, and Elray Wilson.

She leaves to cherish her memories: Sisters, Mary Thomas of  Milam, Texas; Bertha Malone of Tyler, Texas; Annie Mae Holman and Jean McQueen of Fort Worth, Texas; sisters-in-laws; Frances Wilson of Mansfield, Texas and Grace Wilson of Ft. Worth, Texas; nieces, nephews, and many other loving relatives and friends.