CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa — Amber Leigh Foley, 34, of Jupiter, Florida, formerly of Robins, Iowa, passed away suddenly on October 22, 2026, according to her published obituary from Cedar Memorial Park Cemetery Funeral Home. Her death has left family members, friends, and colleagues grieving the loss of a woman remembered for her compassion, vibrant personality, and commitment to helping others. <Link url=”https://www.cedarmemorial.com/Obituary/2026/Oct/Amber-L-Foley/” title=”Read the official obituary”/>.

Amber was born in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, on September 2, 1992, to Mike and Tami (Bjornsen) Foley. Her life included a career in public service, entrepreneurial work, volunteer activities, and a deep love for her family and dogs.

Remembering Amber Leigh Foley

Amber grew up in the Cedar Rapids area and graduated from Linn-Mar High School in 2011. She later attended Creighton University, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in 2015, followed by her master’s and law degrees in 2018.

Her family’s obituary describes someone who approached life with enthusiasm and generosity. From playing soccer and basketball to crafting, singing, and volunteering, Amber pursued a wide range of interests while maintaining close connections with the people around her.

Friends and loved ones remembered her as warm, outgoing, and encouraging, with a gift for making others feel welcome and valued.

A Career Dedicated to Helping Others

Amber devoted more than five years to working as a public defender in Sioux City and Cedar Rapids, Iowa. In that role, she advocated for people who needed legal representation and support.

Her commitment to service began well before her legal career. While still in high school, she earned certifications as a certified nursing assistant and emergency medical technician. She also volunteered at St. Luke’s Hospital and spent five years working as a youth counselor with the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Corridor.

These experiences reflected a longstanding interest in supporting others and contributing to her community.

Dogs Before Dudes and Her Love of Animals

After moving to Jupiter, Florida, Amber combined her entrepreneurial interests with her lifelong love of dogs by developing her dog-focused brand, Dogs Before Dudes.

She became involved in the local dog community and supported activities with Big Dog Ranch Rescue, helping dogs find permanent homes. Her miniature schnauzers, Stanley and Stella, were especially important to her, and she treasured walking with them along Jupiter Dog Beach.

Her love of animals became an important part of the legacy her family hopes to preserve.

Family and Loved Ones

Amber was the beloved daughter of Mike and Tami Foley and a loving sister to Anna, Tomas, and Olivia. She is also survived by her grandmothers, Mardonna Foley and Marjorie Bjornsen, along with extended family members and many friends.

Her family’s obituary describes her as someone who offered thoughtful advice, encouragement, and support, often making friends feel like family.

She was preceded in death by her grandfathers, Larry D. Foley and Terry Bjornsen.

Cause of Death

Amber’s obituary describes her death as sudden but does not specify a cause of death. The account that she was travelling from Cedar Rapids toward Des Moines International Airport when the news emerged has not been established as the confirmed circumstances of her passing.

No further conclusions about the cause or circumstances should be drawn without reliable confirmation.

Funeral Arrangements and Celebration of Life

According to the published obituary, family and friends are invited to remember Amber at the following services:

  • Visitation and celebration of life: Thursday, October 29, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Cedar Memorial Chapel Stateroom in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

  • Funeral service: Friday, October 30, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at Cedar Memorial Chapel of Memories.

  • Florida celebration of life: A separate gathering is planned for Jupiter Dog Beach in Jupiter, Florida, with the date to be announced.

The family has invited attendees to wear a touch of pink, Amber’s favorite color, in recognition of her bright and vibrant personality. The obituary also notes that a livestream of the funeral service is expected to be available through the funeral home’s website.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorial donations to the Amber L. Foley “Dogs Before Dudes” Charitable Fund, intended to continue her legacy of supporting animals.

A Lasting Legacy of Compassion

Amber Foley’s life brought together public service, entrepreneurship, volunteering, and a deep affection for family and animals. From her work as a public defender to her involvement in dog rescue, her family’s tribute highlights a commitment to helping others.

Her loved ones will carry her memory forward through the relationships she built, the people she supported, and the animals whose lives she helped improve.

Disclaimer: This article is based on the published obituary and information provided. Details about the circumstances of Amber’s death should be distinguished from confirmed biographical and memorial information. Information is provided for general informational purposes only.