Justius Charles Koester, Sr.

Kill Devil Hills- Justius Charles Koester, Sr. or “Justy” as he was known by family and friends, died unexpectedly August 20, 2009.  He was 85. Justy was born July 1, 1924 in Rahway, New Jersey.  He served his country proudly in the United States Marine Corps and was decorated several times during his distinguished his military service.

Justy married his soul mate of nearly 50 years, Marcella Summers and together raised their family.  Justy eventually retired from the Marine Corps, and he and his family relocated to the Outer Banks were they treasured their peace, serenity, and happy family times.

Left to cherish Justy’s memory are his wife Marcella of the Kill Devil Hills residence, two sons, Clyde R. Stout and wife Barbara Jean of Ohio, Justius C. Koester, Jr. of Kentucky, two daughters, Suzan Lynn Koester of Kill Devil Hills, Esther A. Hartmann and husband Alfred of Florida; eight beloved grandchildren including Marcy Barrow, Liz Askew, and Charles Koester, 11 great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends who will miss him dearly.

A visitation will be held Monday August 24, 2009 in the afternoon from 2 to 4 pm and evening hours from 6 to 8 pm at the Gallop funeral Services Chapel at MP 16 in Nags Head.  The funeral, with full military honors, will be held graveside at Southern Shores Cemetery Tuesday August 25, 2009 at 11 am.  The Reverend Bob Pitsch will officiate.  Condolences to the family may be sent via the on-line register at www.gallopfuneralservices.  Gallop Funeral Services, Inc. was entrusted with arrangements.