of Higden, AR
January 2, 1948 - December 18, 2025
Barbara Ely (Houck) Kester, 77, of Higden, was born on January 02, 1948, in Des Moines, Iowa to the late Leo and Frances (Ely) Houck and passed from this life on December 18, 2025, at her home. She and her beloved husband, Dennis, retired to the Heber Springs area in 2020. Barbara was an avid reader and enjoyed time spent at their lake house.
Growing up in Des Moines, Iowa, it was there that Barbara received her Bachelor's Degree from Drake University. She went on to earn a Master's Degree in Criminology from the University of Missouri. Her education, intelligence and superior work ethic served her very well in her career. She worked in the Department of Inspections and Appeals for the State of Iowa for over 20 years.
Barbara is preceded in death by her parents.
Left to cherish her memory are her husband of 33 years, Dennis Kester, one daughter, Emily Baum and husband, Shane Adams, one granddaughter, Emma Adams, other relatives and many friends.
A memorial service will be held in the Spring of 2026 to celebrate her life and honor her memory.
To express online condolences please visit www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/clinton.
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13 Condolence(s)
Lori Lavender-Jipp
Sunday, January 18, 2026
I was lucky to work with Barb at DIA. She made work a better place to be, always got to laugh with Barb and enjoyed her humor.
I'm so glad you both got to move down to AR and she was able to enjoy the peaceful lake life in retirement.
James Jones
Tuesday, January 13, 2026
I worked for many years with her. I particularly remember our annual donut bets on Iowa State vs Missouri football games.
Rick Hickman
Monday, January 5, 2026
I knew Barbara since 1955 when we were back door neighbors for 15 years. I attended her dance recitals at Hoyt Sherman Place. She was 3 years ahead of me at Valley. I stayed friends with her parents even after they moved and sold the appliance repair business. I am sorry we lost touch in the mid 80's.
Diana Carzoli
Sunday, January 4, 2026
Dennis, So sorry to hear of Barb’s passing. Hope your warm memories of your years together will provide you with comfort at this time.
Jan Pickerell
Sunday, December 28, 2025
So sorry to her about Barb's death. We have missed having her insights in our AAUW Lit Review group.
Pat Griffith
Wednesday, December 24, 2025
So sorry for your loss Dennis. Hugs and prayers to you and family. 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼
Carol Kester
Wednesday, December 24, 2025
My thoughts and prayers are with you, I always enjoyed seeing and visiting with you Barb She will be missed ❤️❤️🙏🙏
Tom and Sue Short
Tuesday, December 23, 2025
I talked to Randy today and he told me Barb had passed. Please accept Sue and my prayers and sympathy, and know that she is in a better place now. I'm so sorry for your loss and the pain her passing leaves in your heart.
Jeromy Smith
Tuesday, December 23, 2025
So sorry for your loss Dennis.
Bob Cupp
Tuesday, December 23, 2025
So sorry for your loss Dennis, sending prayers to you and your family 🙏🙏
Dennis Kester
Tuesday, December 23, 2025
Best wife I could ever have. Miss you always Barbara
Donna Kester
Sunday, December 21, 2025
Thankful for memories of family get togethers and holidays. With Love and Prayers.
Joyce McSorley
Saturday, December 20, 2025
My friendship with Barb began forty five years ago. We met when the “Emilys” were in the two year old group at Central Presbyterian Church Preschool. Barb was a caring, kind and intelligent friend. I cherish my memories of our long friendship and miss her greatly.