Sondra Lorene Kesterson

Sondra L. Kesterson, 92, formerly of Poplar Bluff, MO passed away on January 26, 2026, at the Chateau Girardeau in Cape Girardeau, MO. Sondra was born on November 10, 1933, to Bertis F. Lee and Lorene E. Lee in Elsberry, MO.

She married Marvin E. Kesterson on July 26, 1970, in St. Louis, MO. A resident of Poplar Bluff from 1972 to 2011, Sondra was a graduate of Qulin HS in 1950. She received a B.S. degree in Education from Southeast Missouri State University in 1965.

She was a teacher in junior high and elementary school for 30 years in both St. Louis and Poplar Bluff, the last 20 years at Kinyon Elementary in Poplar Bluff. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Poplar Bluff.

Family was always very important to Sondra. She enjoyed taking trips to visit family as well as hosting gatherings in her home. She had an outgoing personality and could strike up a conversation with anyone she met. She had a love for animals which she passed on to her children. She also thoroughly enjoyed her years teaching and the bonds she made with colleagues and especially her students.

Sondra is survived by her son Mark H. Neil (Becky) of Wildwood, MO, two daughters Kelly I. Neil and Susan L. Neil of St. Louis, MO, one step-daughter Connie K. Thompson (Jack) of Westcliffe, CO and one step-son Philip Kesterson of Sparta, MO. She also has six grandchildren - Joshua Kesterson (Jenn), Nathan Kesterson (Stephanie), Meagan Pace (Tyler), Jacob Kesterson (Julie), Rachel Kesterson, Sarah Kesterson and six great-grandchildren.

Sondra was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Marvin E. Kesterson, also by her former husband Howard B. Neil, Jr. and by her three brothers Bertis F. Lee, Jr., Buddy E. Lee and Connie B. Lee.

Memorial Gathering will be held from 10:00 am to 11:00 am on February 11, 2026. Memorial Service will follow beginning at 11:00 am at Cotrell Willow Ridge Funeral & Cremations Services in Poplar Bluff, MO.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to the St. Louis Arc or Emmaus Homes are suggested. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Cotrell Willow Ridge Funeral & Cremations Services: https://www.cwrfcs.com

Cotrell Willow Ridge Funeral & Cremation Services is honored to serve the family and friends of Sondra L. Kesterson. Online condolences can be made at www.cwrfcs.com