Agnes Esther Israel, 89, of Springfield, Missouri, passed away peacefully on June 22, 2024. Esther was born on December 8, 1934, in Newton, Kansas.

She is survived by her brother, Wayne Porter; her children, Greg Israel (Cathy), Sheryl Counts (Richard), Steve Israel (Mary), daughter-in-law, Debi Israel; her grandchildren, Aaron Israel (Erika), Sarah Flowers (Heath), Ethan Israel (Rachel), Micah Israel, Eli Israel, Jonah Israel, Hannah Israel, Kelsey Counts, Tanner Counts (Krysta), Logan Counts (Emma), Morgan Israel, Matthew Israel, Tiffanie Nelson-Marquez (Adam), and Kristopher Townsend (Anne); along with her 18 great-grandchildren.

Esther was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Pat Lawson Israel; her dear son, Tracy Alan Israel; and her parents and siblings.

A graduate of Newton High School, after graduating she moved to Wichita, Kansas and went to work for a telephone company as an operator.  She met Pat while living and working in Wichita. They were married on August 28, 1955, and were married for 65 years.

Esther was a talented seamstress and devoted homemaker, talented at managing her household finances. She was a beloved mother and grandmother, known for her cooking and remembered for her funny, witty, and caring personality. She loved her family deeply and was beloved by all who knew her.

Visitation will be held at 8:00 AM followed by a service at 9:00 AM on Friday, June 28, at Hamlin Baptist Church. Interment will take place at 11 AM in the Missouri Veterans Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Hamlin Baptist Church Children's Building Fund.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Midwest Cremation and Funeral Services of Springfield, MO.