Tomasina Lester

It is with heavy hearts, that we announce the passing of Tomasina (“Tommie”) Lester (nee Cassara), of Saint Charles, Missouri, on Friday, September 27, 2024 at the age of 87. 

Beloved wife of Edwin (“Bud”) Lester; cherished daughter of the late Dr. Thomas Cassara and the late Elvira Cassara (nee Passanti); devoted mother of Cindy (Chris) Cook, Beth (Kelly) Wiesbrock, Victoria Lester-Saura, and Thomas (Jacqueline) Lester; loving grandmother of Curtis (Samantha) Cook, Cassara Cook, Cole Cook, Nicholas Wiesbrock, Katherine Wiesbrock, Caroline Wiesbrock, Marc Saura, Elizabeth Wiesbrock, Zoe Lester, and Graycen Lester; treasured great-grandmother of Lincoln Cook; beloved sister of Jacqueline (the late Harprit) Gill, the late Patricia (the late Timothy) Dorsey, and the late Judith (William) Flynn; proud aunt to Meera Gill, the late Sorrel Gill, Damian Gill, Ryan Flynn, Devan Flynn, Megan Flynn; and many more beloved aunts, uncles, cousins and relatives.

Tommie was the eldest of four sisters and she cherished the traditions of her immigrant Italian heritage. Born to a family practice physician, she grew up accompanying her father on hospital rounds and helping in the home office. Following in his footsteps, she pursued a life of service in healthcare. After graduating from Niagara University School of Nursing, Tommie began her vocation as a public health nurse for the State of New York. She impacted countless lives through a long and diverse career as a registered nurse working in oncology, pediatrics, psychiatry, medical case management, home health care, and as the small business owner of a legal nurse consulting firm. She was a recognized leader in her field, known for her exceptional work ethic, her integrity, and her contributions to the nursing community. Her commitment to her profession was matched only by her remarkable ability to connect with people on a deeply personal level, taking a genuine interest in their lives, their families, their struggles, hopes, and aspirations. 

Tommie met the love of her life, Buddy, at the tender age of twelve when she snuck into a teen dance at the local community center in their hometown of Pearl River, New York. Buddy walked her home and, over time, their childhood romance grew into an unbreakable bond. They married in 1960 and went on to raise three daughters and a son, making homes in New York, Washington, California, Minnesota, Missouri, Illinois, Arizona, and Washington DC. She instilled in her children the values of gratitude, education, hard work, and resilience. Her life was a reflection of her belief that "We were put on this earth to help each other and to work hard until we are no longer able.” 

Tommie and Buddy delighted in entertaining family and friends over the years, creating spaces filled with warmth, laughter, delicious food, and cherished memories. Theirs was a partnership based in mutual love and respect. Together, they led a local ‘Marriage Encounter’ chapter, helping to strengthen their bond and that of other married couples, through fellowship and a strong commitment to the covenant of marriage. On the occasion of their 50th wedding anniversary, they set sail on the high seas to joyfully renew their nuptial vows with family by their side. They were blessed with a lifetime of love, adventure, and companionship. 

‘Nurse Tommie’ embodied her profession her entire adult life, making the world a better place for the many people she touched. She was a passionate patient advocate, always standing up for the well-being of those in her care. She found purpose is mentoring those who, like her, took up caring as their life’s calling. For nearly ten years, Tommie lovingly cared for Buddy as he faced Alzheimer's disease. Her strength and deep devotion to her soulmate during his final years were a true testament to her character and her unyielding devotion as a spouse and caregiver. 

Tommie’s later years were enriched by her love of family, the simple joys of gardening and keeping a beautiful home, vacationing with her children and grandchildren, Face-timing with sisters and cousins, and welcoming her first great-grandchild in early 2024. She took daily walks with her faithful Shiba Inu, Mizu, and enjoyed visiting with her neighbors and caregivers at The Boulevard Senior Living Community. Her Catholic faith guided her through the joys and challenges of a life well lived. 

Tommie will be deeply missed by all she touched. Her spirit lives on in the many memories of her family and friends.

A funeral service will be held at Baue Funeral Home in Cave Springs, Missouri, on Monday, October 14, 2024 at noon, preceded by a viewing at 11am the same day.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Niagara University's College of Nursing by visiting www.niagara.edu/college-of-nursing-donations or by mailing a check to Niagara University, P.O. Box 2008 Niagara University, NY 14109.