Ella Marie Hardesty, daughter of David and Nora (Bennett) Peterson, was born on September 22, 1919, in Crocker, Missouri, and departed this life on October 18, 2013, at the age of ninety-four years.

Ella graduated from Crocker High School and worked for Sharps Grain and Supply in Crocker for several years before beginning her employment at the Bank of Crocker, where she worked for 22 years. After her retirement from the Bank, she was employed by the City of Crocker as a bookkeeper for several years.

Ella married Frank Jack Hardesty on February 7, 1942, and to this union were born two sons, Frank and Tim. Jack preceded her in death in 1953, and Ella spent the rest of her life devoted to raising her two sons and enjoying their families. Her son Frank preceded her death in 2002.

Ella made a profession of faith in Christ at an early age, and was an active member of the First Baptist Church, Crocker until her health prevented her from attendance. She was an avid reader and her favorite book was The Bible, which she read completely through 30 or more times. Her favorite movie was The Ten Commandments.

She was accomplished at needlework, making countless afghans for all her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and as gifts for friends. She completed many beautiful cross stitch works, Ella was passionate about her beloved St. Louis Cardinals and was a loyal fan throughout her life.

Ella is survived by her son, Tim (Beth), Richland; daughter-in-law, Joyce, Cedar Hill; grandchildren, Jay (Kristin), Mandeville, Louisiana; Matthew (Stephanie), House Springs; Andrew (Lori), Fenton; Holli Hardesty Bryant (Arthur), Springfield; and Kelli Hardesty, New Orleans, Louisiana. Surviving are great-grandchildren, Maddie Bryant, Maggie and Lillian Hardesty, Elin and Charlie Hardesty and Taylor Davidson.

Ella lived her life loving her family, her Lord and her church, and her friends. The legacy she leaves with us is that of a true Christian mother who trusted her Lord to give her strength and peace throughout her entire life.

Funeral services will be conducted for Ella at 1:00 p.m., Monday, October 21, 2013, in the Long-Kloeppel Funeral Chapel, Crocker, with Pastor Doug Jacobson, Eureka Baptist Church, Richland, officiating.

Visitation will be held from 11 a.m., to 1 p.m., service time, Monday, October 21, 2013, also at the funeral home. Interment will be in the Crocker Cemetery

Memorials are suggested to the Blessings In A Back Pack-Crocker Elementary School.