Hess, Hester C. 1930-2026 Amazonia, Mo.

AMAZONIA, Mo. – Hester Charlene (Smither) Hess, of Amazonia, Missouri, passed away peacefully in her home surrounded by her family on Jan. 29, 2026, at the age of 95. Born on June 15,1930, in Holt County, Missouri, Hester was the daughter of Enos and Grace Smither.

She graduated from Savannah High School with the class of 1948. Hester lived a life marked by hard work, devotion, and a deep love for her family. She worked as a phone operator for Southwestern Bell. Known for her warmth and generosity, she was an exceptional baker and cook whose kitchen was always filled with the comforting aromas of homemade meals and desserts.

On April 22,1950, Hester married the love of her life, Franklin D. Hess, in St. Joseph. They shared many years of partnership, faith, and service, often evangelizing together, and later in life running a church. Franklin preceded her in death.

Hester found joy in gardening and spending time outdoors, tending to her flowers and enjoying the beauty of nature. When she wasn’t outside, she could often be found at the piano, filling her home with music. Above all, she was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose love and guidance shaped generations.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Enos and Grace Smither; her husband, Franklin; her daughter, Shelia; her son, Craig; and her siblings, Betty June Parker and Harlan Smither.

Hester is survived by her sons, Steve Hess Sr. (Christina), of Amazonia, and Tim Hess (Pam), of Cape Coral, Florida. She leaves behind grandchildren, Steve Hess Jr. (Tabatha), of Plattsburg, Missouri, Shannon Hess (Jennifer), of Amazonia, Sharlene McMillian (Jimmy), of Plattsburg, and Seth Hess (Amber), of Amazonia. She is also cherished by many great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, and a large extended family who will forever hold her memory close. Hester’s legacy of faith, kindness, and unwavering love will continue to live on in all who knew her.

The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2026, at the Rupp Funeral home, funeral services 10 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 5, 2026, at the Rupp Chapel, Pastor Larry Gray officiating.

Online condolence, obituary and public livestream www.ruppfuneral.com. As published in the St. Joseph News-Press.