Marla Hess

(From Ferry Funeral Home)

Marla Lynette Hess, 55, Nevada, MO passed from this life on Tuesday, July 8, 2025 at St. Luke’s Hospital in Kansas City, MO. Marla was born November 6, 1969 in Joplin, MO to Jerry Wayne and Vicky Lynn (Draper) Rathbun. She was united in marriage to Sebastian Hess on August 20, 2007 in Washington D.C. and he survives of the home.

Marla was raised in Carterville, MO and graduated from Webb City High School Class of 1988. A graduate of Cottey College and College of the Ozarks, Marla then attended the University of Kansas Law School and received her Juris Doctorate. She spent most of her professional career working for the Heritage Foundation.

In addition to her husband Sebastian, she is survived by her mother, Vicky Dally of Nevada; and several cousins as well as a host of friends. She is preceded in death by her father, Jerry Rathbun and her grandparents.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, July 17, 2025, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Nevada, MO. Burial will follow in Mt. Calvary Cemetery. Rosary will be held at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday evening at Ferry Funeral Home, followed by visitation from 6:00-7:00 p.m.