Elizabeth Kesterson

1939 - 2025

Elizabeth Anne Taylor Kesterson passed away in Austin, TX, November 5, 2025. She was born December 13, 1939, in Baguio, Philippines. Her parents. Emma Kille Taylor and James Houston Taylor, were married in the Philippines where they made their home while Jim worked as a mining engineer..
In her early years, Liz lived in South America, due to her father's work. By the age of ten, she had developed a great deal of Spanish vocabulary and an excellent accent, which allowed her to communicate with ease throughout her life in both Florida and Texas.
While growing up in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Liz became an accomplished Junior Olympic swimmer, eventually earning a place on the U.S. AAU All-America team in 1957. She graduated from Pompano Beach High School in 1958 and went on to earn her Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Therapy from the University of Florida in 1962. Enhancing her college experience, Liz became an active member of the Delta Gamma sorority.
In September 1966, Liz married her high school sweetheart, Wayne Kesterson. Together, they built a life filled with love, family, deep friendships, and meaningful work. By 1972, they were blessed with three children who became the center of their world: Holly, Tracey, and Greg.
As the young family enjoyed living in North Carolina during the 1970's, Liz began to develop her life skills: in addition to Motherhood, she worked as a PT part time, she developed many friends among the young Mothers, she became skilled at both knitting and needle point, and she began to play tennis and bridge, both with the ladies and as couples!
In addition, the young family began a lifelong enjoyment in camping and travel, while in NC. Liz took great pride in leading the young family on successful camping trips from the very small pop top camper pulled by a small VW Squareback Station Wagon!
In 1980, the family relocated to Texas, where Liz thrived in the vibrant cultural atmosphere and embraced her early connection to Spanish. Known for her gracious hospitality, she fully embraced the warmth and richness of the Mexican-influenced Texas lifestyle.
In 1995, Liz & Wayne took a big step into early retirement, starting with a move from Houston to the Austin area, where they would spend the next 30 years. Liz became a certified Natural Gardener, a very skilled quilter, an avid reader and serious duplicate bridge player. In addition, they became curious travelers, throughout the U.S., parts of Mexico and both the east and west coasts of Canada--- often with Elderhostel programs enriching their experiences.
In their 60's, Liz and Wayne became dedicated seasonal volunteers at the Snow Mountain Ranch YMCA near Winter Park, CO, spending several months each year as "live-in" volunteers. Their time in Colorado sparked a love for mountain biking, hiking, as well as both downhill and cross-country skiing - activities they both took on with enthusiasm and a focus on fitness.
Their volunteerism continued back at home, as they became joyful helpers to 4 of the Austin Community Playhouses. They also became intellectually engaged through the University of Texas's Senior Education programs, UT Quest and UT Sage.
After this active and enjoyable life Liz was diagnosed with Early-Stage Memory Loss, in 2018, which then began its slow decline. The family received loving support along this journey from friends and staff at Buckner Villas Retirement Community, Comforts of Home Hospice providers, and the Collinfield House assisted living. Our humble thanks to all!
Liz is survived by her loving spouse, G Wayne Kesterson, her children: Holly (husband Paul) of Beaufort, NC; Tracey Anderson of Austin, TX; and Greg Kesterson of Seattle, WA; and by her grandchildren: Taylor Anderson of Houston, TX. Brooke Anderson of Raleigh, NC, and Raegan Kesterson of Seattle, WA. She is also survived by many extended family members and countless friends whose lives she touched with warmth and joy.
The family may be reached by mail: Kesterson, 11110 Tom Adams Dr A410, Austin, TX 78753. A private remembrance service will be held by the family at a later date.