Rhoda Kesterson Ezell Ward

Rhoda Kesterson Ezell Ward, age 99, of Marion, passed away Wednesday, November 8, 2023 at Mission Hospital in Asheville.

She was born in Madison County on October 13, 1924 to the late John Kesterson and Kitty Austin Kesterson. She was also preceded in death by her first husband, Bevearl Ezell; second husband, Perry Ward; granddaughter, Hope Stevens Kelley; brothers, Doc Kesterson, J.D. Kesterson, Eddie Kesterson, and Tommy Kesterson; and sisters, Agnes Kesterson Reece, Ruth Kesterson Helmrich, and Martha Kesterson.

Rhoda was a wonderful Christian woman who loved the Lord. She was a member of Garden Creek Baptist Church and attended faithfully when she was physically able. She was the manager of Cato’s in Marion for many years. Rhoda enjoyed working puzzles but mostly loved visiting and talking with people. She was very friendly and had a smile for everyone. She loved her large family and looked forward to family get-togethers. She was especially proud of her grandchildren and “great grands.”

She is survived by five children, John Ezell of Chesnee, SC, Del and Judy Ezell of Spartanburg, SC, O.C. and Rhonda Ezell McCoy of Morganton, Beverly Ezell Stevens of Marion, and Dave and Pam Ezell Keller of Woodstock, GA; nine grandchildren, Jeff Ezell (Debbie), Chris Ezell (Christie), April Ezell Draper (David), Shannon Ezell Tate (David), Allison Ezell, Amber Ezell Scott (Carey), Josh Keller (Jessica), Koby Keller (Emily), and JoJo Keller (Kenzie); fifteen great grandchildren; three great-great grandchildren; and three siblings, Mary Kesterson Gilman of Texas, Doris Kesterson Rosier of Baltimore, MD, and Dean Kesterson of Columbus, NC.

A funeral service will be held on Monday, November 13, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Beam Funeral Service. A private burial will follow at Chapel Hill Baptist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 1:00 until 2:00 p.m.