Esther Belle (Smith) Alexander, 60 of Russell, Kansas died Thursday, April 3, 2014 at her home with her family by her side.

Esther was born October 23, 1953 in Laurenburg, North Carolina, the daughter of Henry Franklin and Eva Cynthia (Conner) Smith.  She grew up in Maxton and Rutherfordton, North Carolina before moving to Goodrich, Michigan.  She graduated from Duncan U. Fletcher Senior High School with the Class of ’72 in Jacksonville, Florida.

Esther was united in marriage to James R. Alexander on February 22, 1972.  They made their home in Seattle, Washington while Jim served his country in the U.S. Navy.  This union was blessed with two children; Frank and Crystal.  They made their homes in Milford, Nebraska; Topeka, Kansas; Hill City, Kansas; Newton, Kansas; Kennett, Missouri and moved to Russell in March of 1997.

Esther was a devoted wife and home maker.  Taking care of her family and assisting her husband in his pastoral duties was very important to her.  In her spare time she loved being outdoors, gardening, decorating homes and using her creative spirit.  She was a free spirit that brought many smiles to her family and friends.

Surviving family include her husband of 42 years, James of the home; daughter, Crystal Alexander of Russell, Kansas; son, Frank D. Alexander of Russell, Kansas; brothers, Jack  and Tony; sisters, Deloris and Vivian; and two granddaughters, Mckenna Faith Alexander and Lauryn Grace Alexander.  She was preceded in death by her parents.

Celebration of Esther’s Life will be held at 11:00 A.M. Wednesday, April 9, 2014 at the Assembly of God Calvary Chapel in Russell, Kansas with Pastor Exie Barber officiating.  Burial will follow at the Russell City Cemetery.  Visitation will be from 9 AM to 8 PM Tuesday, April 8, 2014 at Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell with the family present to greet friends from 6 PM to 7 PM.  A Memorial has been established with Kansas Assembly of God – Woodston Family Camp.  Contributions and condolences may be sent to Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary, who is in charge of these arrangements.
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