Estella K Lister

Estella K. Lister, 87, of Independence, Kansas, peacefully passed away on May 30, 2026, at Medicalodges in Independence. Cremation has taken place, and no services are planned at this time.

Estella was born on June 9, 1938, in Neodesha, Kansas, to Amos T. (Red) and Thelma B. (Jim Nick) Nichols. She grew up in Neodesha, with the values of faith, kindness, and hard work that would guide her throughout her life. To her family she was fondly referred to as Tiny.

In 1961, Estella married the love of her life, Norman Lister. Together they built a life centered on family, raising their children while living in Fredonia, Independence, and other Kansas communities before retiring to Bella Vista, Arkansas.

A devoted homemaker and faithful member of First Christian Church, Estella lived her life with compassion, grace, and unwavering faith. Estella worked as a nurse’s aid at the hospital in Fredonia. After leaving Fredonia for one year to live in Howard they returned, and she opened a home daycare until they moved to Independence where she owned and operated a women’s clothing store. After leaving Independence Estella worked in customer service for Capitol Federal bank until she and Norman retired to Bella Vista.

Following Norman's passing, Estella returned to Independence in 2005, where she remained close to the family and community she loved.

Estella was a volunteer at the hospital in Independence. She was a proud member of the Red Hat Ladies and found great joy in spending time with her daughter at her daycare. There, she became affectionately known as "Granny" to countless children whose lives were brightened by her warm smile, gentle spirit, and loving heart.

More than anything, Estella cherished her family. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend who always put the needs of others before her own. Her love was constant, her faith was strong, and her kindness touched everyone fortunate enough to know her. Her legacy lives on in the many lives she nurtured, encouraged, and loved so deeply.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Norman Lister; her daughters, Janice Venable and Wanda Gettler; her brother, Jerry Nichols and her sisters Elda Rae Nichols and Patricia Studebaker.

Those left to cherish her memory include her daughter Marcia McAlerney (Martin), her grandchildren A. Lee Falley (Shannon Rivers), Toby Gettler (Stephanie), Jill Wanner (Jimmy), and Jeffrey Gettler (Joslyn Kusiak) and great grandchildren Corbin Wanner, Tatum Gettler, Ressie Wanner, Jaxon Falley and Tinley Gettler.

Though her family mourns her passing, they find comfort in knowing that Estella's faith has carried her home and that her love will remain in their hearts forever.

The family invites friends and loved ones to leave a special message of condolence. Arrangements have been entrusted to Webb & Rodrick Chapel

In lieu of flowers if you would like to contribute to Estella’s memory you may donate to

Boys Town https://donors.boystown.org

Or

BACH ECI https://bach.networkforgood.com/projects/23855-bach