Esther Willbern

EstherJo Willbern of Coffeyville passed away Sunday, October 31, 2010 at her home. She was 82. Jo was born July 1, 1928 in Coffeyville to John and Marian Perry Livingston. She grew up in Coffeyville where she received her education, graduating from Field Kindley High School in 1944. She also attended classes at Coffeyville Community College. On September 5, 1947 she was united in marriage to Damon Willbern, he survives of the home. The couple lived in San Antonio, Texas where Jo worked for the U.S. Attorneys Office. They also lived in San Angelo, TX where she worked as a Continuity Writer for a TVRadio station. The couple returned to Coffeyville, Kansas where she was a member of The Presbyterian Church. She worked as a Christian Education Director for the church. Jo was also the Childrens Librarian at the Coffeyville Public Library. She retired from the Library after fifteen years of service in December of 1991. She is fondly remembered by many as a great Librarian. Jo was a former President of the PTA at Edgewood School in Coffeyville and also former President of the Campfire Council. She enjoyed crossword puzzles needlepoint and reading. She was very fond of her childrens pets. She is survived by her loving husband, Damon Willbern of the home son, Marc Willbern of Coffeyville daughter, Connie Graham and husband Jon of Buenos Aires, Argentina grandchildren, Jocelyn Larson, Haley Arizmendi, Daniel Atkinson, Jeremy Willbern greatgrandchildren, Bryce Atkinson, Brayden Atkinson, Kinsley Atkinson and Karyssa Hall. She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Marian Livingston infant son, Stephen Willbern daughter, Marcia Lynn Willbern brothers, Kenneth, Gerald and Jay Livingston. A Graveside service will be held on Thursday, November 4, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. at Restlawn Memorial Park Cemetery in Coffeyville. Chaplain Mike Graham will officiate. The family suggests memorial contributions can be made to The American Cancer Society, Coffeyville Public Library or Harry Hynes Memorial Hospice. These may be left with PenwellGabel FordWulfBruns Funeral Home in Coffeyville. To leave a special message for the family online, visit www.PenwellGabelCoffeyville.com