Esther Arlene Reeley

Esther Arlene (Roberts) Reeley

September 19, 1935- November 5, 2025

Esther Reeley was born 3rd of 7 children to Daniel Lawrence and Irene Mercer Roberts in Paris, Illinois on September 19, 1935.

Esther met John Samuel “Sam” Reeley in 1955, and they were married on June 16, 1956. They celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary before Sam passed away in 2017.

Esther became a member of Evans Valley Bible Church in 1981, and remained active until 2019. While there, Esther taught Sunday School, was active in CEF and VBS, was a valiant prayer warrior, helped organize potlucks and hot dog roasts, participated in maintenance projects, and sang in the choir. After 2019, Esther attended Mountain Church with her granddaughter Rowena.

Durning her life, Esther lived in Paris, Il; Kansas, Il; Chino, CA; and Rogue River, OR. Esther enjoyed reading, gardening, shopping at garage sales, and playing with children (especially children in her family and at church). She loved Christmas-especially giving presents and singing Christmas carols. She loved to cook and bake, and was one of the most hospitable people we know. She loved big family dinners. As Mom and as Grandma, she gave the very best hugs.

Esther died peacefully at her home in Wimer (Rogue River) on November 5, 2025.

Esther was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Sam; her parents Daniel Roberts and Irene Roberts; her siblings Mary Hudson, Nancy Roberts, Edward Roberts, and James Roberts; her granddaughter Shannan Penrose Sanderson; and her great-grandson Joshua Sanderson.

Esther is survived by her daughters April Penrose, Diane Hess (Sam), and Samantha Perkins (Shane); two brothers Charles Roberts and Arthur Robers (Carol); her sister-in-law Jackie Reeley; 10 of her grandchildren, 10 of her great grandchildren, and her many nieces and nephews.

There will be a celebration of life on December 12, 2025 at 3 pm at Stephens Family Chapel. Donations in lieu of flowers may be sent to Bristol Hospice Foundation.