Pitsenbarger, Esther L. (Smoot)

Posted By: Wally Garchow
Date: 21 November 2001

Source: Garst Museum

Esther L. PITSENBARGER, 91, formerly of 516 N. Center, Versailles, died at the home of her daughter, Virginia AGNE in Plainwell, Michigan. She had been in failing health.

She was the daughter of the late Rev. Harry W. and Laura (NICHOLS) SMOOT. Mrs. PITSENBARGER had lived in Versailles for the past 67 years, was a member of Versailles United Church of Christ, Versailles, former choir director for more than 26 years in the church, graduated from Carmi, Ill. High School and Evansville College, Evansville, IN. with a degree in music. She also attended Miami University, Oxford. She taught vocal music in Versailles Schools for over 26 years. She also taught in Russia Schools, Russia, and five small area schools all prior to teaching in Versailles, teaching vocal music in all schools. She was an accomplished violinist and had also studied painting and known locally for art work.

She had formerly been active in the Towne and Country Players, a member of the former Versailles Eastern Stars and a member of the Ohio Music Education Association.

She was married to Clarence E. (Pitsy) PITSENBARGER, who preceded her in death in November 1986.

She is survived by two daughters, Mrs. Donald "Virginia" AGNE of Kalamazoo, MI and Mrs. Richard "Gail" BRANDEWIE of Piqua, OH; eight grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren.

Funeral services were held on Monday morning Aug. 5, 1996 at 10:30 AM at the Versailles United Church of Christ with Rev. Carolyn Welch officiating. Burial was made in Greenlawn Cemetery in Versailles. Bailey Zechar Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Memorial contributions may be made to Esther Pitsenbarger Scholarship Fund, Wings of Hope Hospice in Plainwell, MI or Lehman High School Music Scholarship Fund at Lehman High School, Sidney.

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