Mary Lou Eshelman (Hoover)

Mary Lou Eshelman, 94, of Independence, MO, was welcomed into the Everlasting arms of her Savior, Jesus Christ on January 25, 2021, in the presence of her loving family. Mary Lou was born on September 27th, 1926, to Irvin and Anna (Lady) Hoover near Abilene, KS. Surviving the tragic death of her mother as an infant, she grew up in a devoted family with 9 siblings, cared for by her father and her "new mother" Carrie (Deemy) Hoover. It was and is an incredibly joyful and loving family, celebrated every 3 years in family gatherings, coming from California, Pennsylvania and places in between. Mary Lou was wed to Albert Dale Eshelman, her church sweetheart, on August 2, 1946, and was his anchor throughout his military and medical career. They were blessed with 3 children, Janet, Steven, and David. Family was the core of Mary Lou's life. She was never happier than when the kids were playing games, with all the loving noise and playful bickering. Her favorite game was Upwords, at which she was able to defeat ail challengers, nearly even to her last breath. She was vivacious, humorous and energetic, ready with a hug, loved and remembered by everyone she met. Her faith in Christ grew out of her Brethren in Christ church heritage. She played the piano, incredibly well, by ear as they say, and her favorites were the old hymns of her childhood with some country thrown in. She was also one of the last great yodelers! She was a member of Eastgate Christian Church of Independence. Mary Lou is survived by her three children, Janet (Roger) Fielder, Kansas City, MO; Steven (Melissa) Eshelman, Alma, KS; and David Eshelman, Independence, MO; 10 grandchildren, 18 great grandchildren, and 2 great great grandchildren. All are bathed with many wonderful memories and will miss her incredibly. Visitation will be held from 1-2:00 p.m., Saturday, January 30, 2021 followed by a small private family service, due to Covid-19 restrictions, at Carson-Speaks Funeral Home, 1501 W. Lexington Ave., Independence, MO., 64052. Family burial will be in Floral Hills Cemetery, Raytown, MO. In lieu of flowers, consider a donation to City Union Mission of Kansas City. Email condolences may be sent to cbookls@gmail.com. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.speakschapel.com (Arrangements: Carson-Speaks Chapel (816) 252-7900)