Carol Joy Ellenberger

1941 - 2024

Carol Joy Ellenberger

March 8, 1941 - December 10, 2024

Omaha, Nebraska - Carol Joy Ellenberger, age 83, of Omaha, NE, passed away Tuesday, December 10, 2024, after a six-month illness. She was surrounded by family during her final weeks in hospice care, and passed peacefully, with her sister Connie by her side.

Carol was born in Omaha, NE, on March 8, 1941, to Herb and Joy (Plorin) Ellenberger (both deceased). Recognized throughout her life for her striking beauty, Carol was much more than a pretty face. Her love of books began at an early age, and she could often be found under a tree reading. Those who knew her best valued her wisdom, spiritual depth, kindness, and humor.

Carol graduated from Omaha North High School in 1959 and studied Elementary Education at Peru State College. While there, she met her first husband, Clarence Stessman of Liberty, MO. They settled in Kansas City, MO, began careers in education, and created a loving family with three children who brought tremendous joy and fulfillment to their lives. Carol is also survived by her second husband, Dean Gustafson, of Overland Park, KS. Dean and Carol enjoyed many years creating and working in their garden, and making annual trips to the Rocky Mountains.

Carol taught for several years at St. Charles Elementary School in Gladstone, MO, where she was adored by her students. She transitioned to a career in social work after earning her Master of Social Work degree from the University of Kansas in 1991. She served as the first Director of Community Concern at Village Presbyterian Church in Prairie Village, KS, where she oversaw a sizable grants program that funded numerous community service efforts in the Kansas City area. She also spearheaded the introduction of the Mother-to-Mother program in the area, which partnered experienced mothers with those needing support. She also served as an LCSW for the Kansas Department of Social Services and KU Medical Center.

Upon her retirement, Carol moved to Jefferson City to be near her beloved four grandchildren. She lived in a little cottage that she transformed into a magical, cozy place of refuge for her family and friends. Carol had a unique ability to create beautiful, love-filled spaces where the tea tasted better and the blankets smelled like lavender. Carol was that person that everyone came to when they needed wise counsel and compassion. She shared her cottage with Mr. Darcy, a Yorkshire terrier she rescued from a local shelter.

Her final years were spent back in Omaha near her lifelong best friend, her sister Connie. Together they enjoyed many family gatherings, and indulged in their common interests of British literature and film, genealogy, and progressive political causes. They were members of the All Saints Episcopal Church where they worshiped, volunteered, and attended weekly centering prayer led by Carol.

Carol is survived by her son, Eric Stessman (Betty), of Milwaukee, WI; daughter, Mary Chen (Lucas), of Jefferson City, MO; daughter, Susie Fairley (Preston), of Olathe, KS; Grandchildren: Claire Chen (Joe Johnson), Grace Chen (Sawyer Gibbs), Rose Chen, and Teddy Chen; brother, Tom Ellenberger (Betty); sister, Connie Harrahill (Jim); and beloved nieces, nephews, and extended family.

A private memorial service will take place in Omaha. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the Josie Harper Hospice House, 7415 Cedar Street, Omaha, NE, 68124.