Esther Elizabeth (Keckley) Hounshell, affectionately known by family and friends as “Red,” passed away peacefully at her residence in Clear Brook, Virginia, on Thursday, July 2, 2026. She was 96 years old.

Born on August 12, 1929, in Rest, Virginia, Esther was the cherished daughter of the late Lester Franklin Keckley and Nancy Selena “Nannie” (Hoover) Keckley. She was a graduate of Stonewall High School and dedicated her life to creating a warm, nurturing environment for her family as a devoted homemaker. Guided by her Methodist faith, Esther’s kindness, resilience, and bright spirit left an indelible mark on all who knew her.

On her birthday, August 12, 1950, she married her beloved husband, James Oliver Hounshell, Jr., in Winchester, Virginia. Together, they built a beautiful life centered on family and community until his passing on September 13, 2019.

Esther found great joy in the simple, beautiful traditions of home and hearth. She was a master baker whose kitchen was constantly filled with the comforting aromas of fresh treats. Beyond her baking, she perfected the delicate art of jelly making. Her signature homemade raspberry jelly became a legendary token of her affection; she took immense pleasure in gifting jars to family and friends, capturing her incredibly giving and nurturing spirit.

Alongside her talents in the kitchen, Esther possessed a lifelong love of movement and music, always finding pure happiness whenever she was dancing.

Surviving are her sons, Scott Monroe Hounshell (Penny) and Monte Jay Hounshell (Christine).

Grandchildren, April Nicole Burke (Brian), Amy Leigh Lewis (P.J.), Andrew Scott Hounshell (Tiffany), Adam Stewart Hounshell (Nichole), James Asbury Hounshell (Devon), and Kollin Asbury Hounshell (Elizabeth), 8 great grandchildren; 3 great great grandchildren and sister-in-law, Betty Keckley Davis.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; her sisters, Gladys Irene Ring (and husband, Buck) and Mary Frances Heironimus (and husband, Lynwood); and her brother, Walter Franklin Keckley.

A visitation will be held on Monday, July 13, 2026, for 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm, at Omps Funeral Home, Amherst Chapel.

A funeral service will be conducted on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at 11:00 am, at Omps Funeral Home, Amherst Chapel, with Pastor John Lock officiating.  Interment will be in Shenandoah Memorial Park.

Memorial contributions may be made to Clear Brook Fire & Rescue, 1256 Brucetown Road, Clear Brook, VA  22624.