Helen Chesnut

(From Daniel Funeral Home)

Helen Maxine Chesnut, age 98, of Lamar, Missouri passed away early Friday morning, July 8, 2022, at her daughter's home in Nevada, surrounded by family. .

Maxine was born February 6, 1924, at home in Coal Camp near Mindenmines, Missouri, third of the four children of Elmer and Stella (Applegate) Kelsey. 

She was preceded in death by her parents and siblings, Earl "Bud" Kelsey, Jack Kelsey, and Mable Letton.

After graduating from Mindenmines High School, Maxine earned a teaching certificate and taught in a one-room country school in Crawford County, Kansas for the 1943-44 school year. 

On August 13, 1944, in Mulbery, Kansas, she married her high school sweetheart, Judd Allen Chesnut and they had celebrated 61 years together before his death January 24, 2006.

In addition to being a devoted wife, mother, and homemaker, Maxine worked side-by-side with Judd in his veterinary clinic for many years. She was an active member of First Christian Church of Lamar and enjoyed the fellowship of friends in various bridge clubs and the Lamar Red Hat Society.

Survivors include two sons, Judd (Ann) Chesnut of Lamar and Michael (Nancy) Chesnut of Neosho, Missouri; two daughters, Cynthia (Bill) Wynn of Nevada, Missouri and Alison (Michael) Gromer of Overland Park, Kansas; 12 grandchildren, Beth (Jeremy) Fowler, Jared (Becca) Chesnut, Chad (Kim) Chesnut, Charity (Mark) Solomon, Megan (Andy) Smith, Kelly Wynn, Kristin (Myles) Miller, Mary Beth (Robbie) Lynn, Matthew (Amanda) Gromer, Luke (Anna) Gromer, Sarah (Dalton) Maples; and 23 great-grandchildren.

Details for a planned Celebration of Life service will be announced later.

Contributions are suggested and made payable to Champions Special Ministries, Inc., The Neighbors Center in Nevada, Himalayan Christian Mission, or Lamar Sheltered Workshop, in care of Daniel Funeral Home.

Condolences may be shared at www.dfhlamar.com