Carol J. Lester, 81, of Marysville, passed away peacefully on February 20, 2026, at Cambridge Place.

A funeral service will take place at 11 a.m., Saturday, February 28, 2026 at Kinsley Mortuary in Marysville, with Rev. Julie Shields officiating.

Burial will be in Marysville City Cemetery.

Carol was born April 4, 1944, in Marysville, to Roy and Marriettia (DeGroff) Locke. She graduated from Marysville High School in 1962 and married the love of her life, Carl Lester, on September 30, 1966. Together they built a life centered on family, loyalty, and community.

Carol worked at the Broadway Café and the Pacific Hotel in Marysville, where she was known for her warm spirit and steady dedication. She had a natural way of making people feel welcome, a quality that defined her throughout her life.

Family was the heart of Carol’s world. She cherished gatherings on the Fourth of July and Labor Day and created traditions that brought everyone together year after year. Her apple dump cake became a favorite at family events. She never missed a birthday and always sent a card and something thoughtful to remind her loved ones how much they meant to her.

She shared a close and enduring bond with her niece Traci. For many years, Traci cared for Carol and made meaningful sacrifices to ensure she was supported, comfortable, and never alone. Their relationship reflected unwavering love, loyalty, and commitment. Carol took great pride in her nephew Jason’s military service and overseas travels, following his journey closely and taking a sincere interest in all he experienced.

Carol found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She loved listening to Elvis Presley and watching professional wrestling, and she took special delight in following the New York Yankees, the Cincinnati Bengals, and Kansas basketball. Cheering on those teams gave her another way to stay connected to her family, and she treasured the conversations, shared excitement, and friendly debates that came with each season.

Carol was preceded in death by her parents and her husband, Carl. 

She is survived by her sister-in-law, Cherie Ferris; brother-in-law, Paul Lester; cousin, Kenneth Johnson and many loving nieces and nephews.

A memorial fund has been established, with designation to be determined. Contributions may be sent in care of Kinsley Mortuary, Marysville, Kansas.