Nita Deane Kester, the daughter of Sam and Opal (Grandfield) Thompson, was born on September 29, 1924, on a farm in Barney, Iowa. She passed away on April 21st, 2026, at 2:15 p.m. Nita Deane was the oldest of 5 children born to Sam and Opal Thompson. She attended school in Madison County and graduated from Macksburg High School in 1941. She married Ralph Kester in December 1947. To this union 3 children were born – Sheryl, Ralph Jr. and Tom Kester. Nita had 2 children previously – Allen Downey and Janet Downey Johnson. Nita enjoyed her 5 wonderful children. At age 48, Nita began working at nursing homes for 15 years, loved the residents and missed them when she retired.
Nita loved her gardening, her flowers, and her cooking. She loved to sew many articles for her family and friends. Playing cards, various games and putting together puzzles were some of her favorite pastimes. She also enjoyed her 30+ years in Bridgewater in the home that she and Ralph loved. Her retirement home in Fontanelle was a great home also.
At an old age of 86 – Nita was baptized into the Immanuel Lutheran Church. She and her companion Lee Hazen attended church as much as they could together.
Nita was preceded in death by her parents – Sam and Opal, sisters – Dorothy, Betty and Marilyn as well as her son – Allen whose wife Vanna is still with us. She is survived by her only brother Sam & his wife Carol, her daughters Janet and Sheryl and her partner Jim. She is also survived by her son Ralph Jr. and his wife Debbie, as well as her son Tom, 9 grandchildren, many great grandchildren, great great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and friends.
The family of Nita Kester wishes to express their gratitude for all the acts of kindness shown to them in their time of sorrow and invite you to share in a lunch at Immanuel Lutheran Church after the Cemetery Services in loving memory of Nita Kester.
Funeral Services: Will be held on Friday, May 1, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at the Immanuel Lutheran Church in Greenfield with burial in the Greenfield Cemetery. A luncheon will be held at the church following the burial. The Lamb Funeral Home in Greenfield is in charge of the professional arrangements. Online condolences may be left to the family at www.lambfuneralhomes.com.
Family Visitation: The family will greet friends at the church from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Friday, May 1, 2026.
Memorials: Memorials may be made to the Nita Kester Memorial Fund to be established by the family at a later date.
