Janet “Marlene” Jester

Janet “Marlene” Jester of Losantville died peacefully at home on December 4, 2023. Marlene was born to Myron Elliott and Rachel (Manifold) Elliott on April 29, 1946, in New Castle, Indiana.

Those left to cherish her memory are her husband, Phillip, her two sons and daughters-in-law: Wayne (Joyce) and Troy (Rebecca), her 6 grandchildren: Kennedy, Rylan, Hailey, Jackson, Lindsey, and Bennett, her brothers: Terrell (Tina) Elliott and Curt (Sherrie) Elliott, many nieces and nephews, cousins and wonderful friends of the “Sewing Club”.

Marlene grew up in Mooreland. Her family moved to Westport while she was in elementary school. Marlene graduated from Sand Creek High School in Westport Indiana in 1964. After graduation, her family moved back to the Mooreland area. Marlene was crowned Mooreland Fair queen in 1964. Marlene and Phil met in 1964 and then married on July 8, 1967. Marlene graduated from Ball State University as a speech-language pathologist in 1968.

Marlene worked as a teacher and speech pathologist for over 30 years. She started at Richmond School Corporation then went Green Acres, Portland Schools, and retired from New Castle School Corporation. Marlene taught sign language and night school throughout her career.

During retirement, Marlene enjoyed her grandchildren, embroidered crafty items, and clothing for anyone who needed some work done. Marlene (Grammy as the grandchildren called her) also taught each of her grandchildren how to sew. Marlene also enjoyed the shorthorn cattle that the family raised and grandchildren showed. She also spent many hours during the summer months throughout her life in her garden taking care of the flowers and plants to feed the family.

The family would like to express their appreciation for Reid Hospice for the care provided to Marlene.

Services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, December 12, 2023 at Hinsey Brown Funeral Service in New Castle. Burial will follow at Mooreland Cemetery. Visitation will be from 4-8:00 p.m. Monday at the funeral home. Memorial contributions made go to either Reid Hospice or Dementia Friends Indiana. You may express condolences or share a memory of Marlene at www.hinsey-brown.com .