Rheba Koestel

Delivered by her father in the family’s wood-stove-heated, two-room cabin in Caneyville, Kentucky, Rheba’s date of birth was eventually documented as February 15, 1944, her parents’ best recollection. But when adopted at age 9 by her aunt and uncle, Rheba had the rare opportunity to name herself. Taking the middle name of each new parent, she became Rheba Marshall Williar.

At age 18 Rheba married Nathan Kefauver, and when told they could not have children, the couple joyfully adopted their daughter Janie. The family rapidly expanded when Rheba then promptly became pregnant with Candy, closely followed by Sherry.

For the next few decades Rheba not only wore the title of devoted mother, she was also known to her family and friends as an active member of Georgetown Baptist Church, Band Mom, school bus driver, and general handywoman. In the pre-internet days, Rheba somehow found a way to do whatever needed to be done, whether it was finishing a basement, fixing a lawn mower, or organizing a band fundraiser.

In the mid-80s Rheba acquired her dream job, working as a USPS letter carrier in Louisville. It is also where she met the man who would become her long-time beau and eventual husband, Joseph Koestel, affectionately known as Papa Joe to the grandkids.

Upon retiring early from the post office, Rheba then devoted most of her energy to being Mema to her grandchildren, spending time with Joe, and fellowshipping with the beloved ladies in her Sunday School class at Crestwood Baptist Church.

Though dementia and other health issues took their toll on Rheba during more recent years, she held fast to her sweet nature and deep love of family. As was her wish, Rheba died peacefully at home on December 3, 2024, with loved ones by her side.

Rheba is survived by her daughters Janie Jacques (Michael), Candy Thomas (Kirk), and Sherry Kefauver; grandchildren Aaron Jacques, Kennedy Thomas, and Camden Thomas; sister Jean Hancock; and a number of beloved nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by husband Joseph Koestel; grandson Gavin Jacques; siblings Wanda Collins, G.W. Whitely, and Janice Smith; and nephews Eddie Smith and Rob Hancock.

A visitation for Rheba will be held Thursday, December 12, 2024 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Arch L. Heady at Resthaven, 4400 Bardstown Road, Louisville, Kentucky 40218. A visitation will occur Friday, December 13, 2024 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM. A funeral service will occur Friday, December 13, 2024 at 12:00 PM.