Esther Reed Ashley

Esther R. Ashley 96, of Overland Park, Kansas, passed over February 2, 2009. Esther was born July 23, 1912 to Charles and Alma Kallenback in Kansas City, Kansas.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband of 55 years Ernest J. Ashley, her daughter Shirley J. Landis, granddaughter Carole Ann Cunningham and sister Charlotte Hagstrom.

Her circle of life includes daughters; Sue (Gar) Cantrell and Nancy (John) Alberg. Her beloved grandchildren; Cathy Misemer, David Cunningham, Daniel Cunningham, Laura Landis, Fred Landis, Carrie Storm, Timothy Evans, Susan Canaan, and Julie Spatz. 15 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great-grandchildren.

As a 1929 graduate of Wyandotte High School, planning and attending class reunions were special events. She was a life long member of Central Christian Church, where she taught the Cradle Roll Sunday School Class for 48 years. Many generations will remember her whenever they hear Jesus Loves Me and Away in the Manger. She served as deaconess emeritus, CYF sponsor, and church board member. With her beautiful soprano voice, she was called upon to perform at many events.

Esther was an accomplished seamstress. In 1951, she went to work for Macy's custom drapery divison, which prompted her to co-found and own the Ashley Drapery Shop in 1954. As a successful businesswoman, she worked with the leading interior designers in the Kansas City area until her retirement. Esther and Ernie retired to Alamo, Texas where the enjoyed their new home, friends, and their beautiful "Rio Grande Valley". They had the time of their lives.

Widowed in 1984. She returned to Overland Park in 1990 to reside at Sante Fe Towers until health required a move to Overland Park Manor. Esther was a favorite of residents and staff, always enjoying the activities and a good joke. She had the ability to make friends wherever she went. Her family will always be grateful for the love and care she received for over the past ten years from her many caregivers. She was affectionately known as Queen Esther. She taught us all what it meant to truly love, and we will carry her life mark forever.

Funeral Services

She was cremated, and private family services will be held at a later date.