Grace Lamoine Hesterlee

Grace L. Hesterlee, 94, of Lenexa, KS, formerly of Sedalia, MO, passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 26, 2024, at Homestead Assisted Living in Lenexa. Born on January 21, 1930, in Mulvane, KS, she was the beloved daughter of Clarence Neal and Ruby (Braley) Eakins, both of whom preceded her in death.

On January 25, 1953, Grace was united in marriage to her cherished husband, Lowell L. Hesterlee, in Waco, KS. Their sixty-six years of devotion to one another were filled with love and laughter until Lowell's passing on June 19, 2019.

A proud graduate of Derby High School (class of 1947), Grace began her career as a telephone exchange operator in Wichita, KS. She later contributed her talents at the E.W. Thompson State School in Sedalia and became a beloved school bus driver for Sedalia School District #200, along with working as a cashier at Bob's AF Super.

Grace was a dedicated member of Broadway Presbyterian Church, where she served as a Deacon and was actively involved in the Presbyterian Women's Association and Circle. Alongside Lowell, she volunteered for Meals on Wheels, embodying the spirit of service throughout their years together. A passionate supporter of her children's activities, Grace was one of the original soccer moms and served as a Den Mother for all three of her sons in Boy Scout Troop #65.

An accomplished seamstress, Grace had a deep love for sewing, crocheting, and quilting. She also enjoyed collecting teddy bears and lighthouse memorabilia. Grace treasured her time with the West Central Missouri Vintage Auto Club, creating lasting friendships with members and their families.

Grace is survived by her two sons, Brian L. Hesterlee of Barnett, MO, and Brent N. Hesterlee (Rachelle) of Lenexa, KS; a daughter-in-law, Rebecca Jorgensen, of Seattle, WA; five grandchildren, Erica Eisenmenger (the late Brendan), Jordon Robertson (Scott), Melaina Hesterlee, Madalyn Hesterlee, and Joseph Hesterlee; five great-grandchildren, Beckett, Libby, Cate Eisenmenger, Annie and Blair Robertson and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband and parents, Grace was preceded in death by her son, Gevan Wayne Hesterlee; her daughter, Lynne Lamoine Furnell; and four siblings: Betty Marie Ebert, Ruth Alice Mooney, Sharon Jane Storts, and Jimmy Neal Eakins.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, November 1, 2024, at Rea Funeral Chapel, officiated by Pastor Rob Hughes. The family will welcome friends from 10:00 a.m. until service time at the chapel. Grace will be laid to rest at Crown Hill Cemetery in Sedalia, MO.

Serving as pallbearers will be Melaina Hesterlee, Beckett Eisenmenger, Darrin May, Dick Culver, Rod Boone, and Joseph Hesterlee. Honorary bearers include Robert Vaughan, Scott Bradberry, Gaylon Alfrey, Bill Chevalier, John Kehde, Josh Rhoades, John Neal Eakins, and Rex Sheeley.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Broadway Presbyterian Church in care of Rea Funeral Chapel.

The Hesterlee family extends heartfelt gratitude to the Sedalia community, Broadway Presbyterian Church family, for their unwavering support and kindness following Grace's move to Lenexa. Grace's warmth and spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew her.