Joan Gale LeBleu-Kessinger, 77, of Graford, Texas, formerly of Early and Comanche, Texas passed away Friday, May 20, 2022. A visitation with family will be held at Heartland Funeral Home from 6:00 – 8:00 PM, Wednesday, May 25, 2022. A funeral service will be held at the Early Church of Christ, 900 Early Blvd, Early, TX 76802 at 2:00 PM, Thursday, May 26, 2022 with interment to follow at Rocky Creek Cemetery officiated by Pastor Paul Shero.
Joan was born November 21, 1944 in San Angelo, Texas to E.D. and Velma LeBleu. She graduated from Lake View High School in 1963 and attended college at SAC, now known as ASU, in San Angelo completing 1 year. Joan married Robert John Kessinger from San Angelo on December 5, 1964. Together, they had 3 children and later divorced after 21 years of marriage. While living in Brownwood, Joan went back to college attending Howard Payne University and completing her Bachelor of Science degree in 1989. She moved back to her hometown of San Angelo and attended Angelo State University and completed her Master of Science in 1993 and received her LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor certification. She began her professional career at age 50, working for MHMR and then for Rivercrest Hospital and a private office where she specialized in chemical dependency counseling. She continued to work until her illness at age 76. Joan lived near her daughter in Christoval for 15 years before she moved in with her daughter, Diana and husband Jeff in Graford, Texas about September 2021 until her passing. Her daughter and son-in-law cared for her throughout her battle with cancer at home. Joan was most passionate about going to Rodeos and barrel races supporting her daughter during performances and competition. She loved being around the horses and enjoyed being outdoors with her daughter. Joan could always be found cheering on her grandchildren at all of their sporting events. She loved to relax in her backyard swing watching the birds and tending to her garden. Joan had a group of long-term friends that she truly cherished who were with her until the end. She was a member of the Church of Christ her entire life and took comfort knowing that God was on her side.
Joan is survived by her children, Diana Stark and husband Jeff of Graford and son, John D. Kessinger of Christoval; grandsons, Caleb Stark of San Angelo, Ryan Stark and wife Cassie of Christoval, Jonathan Stark of Christoval, and Kevin Kessinger; granddaughter, Breanna Stark of San Angelo and Madeline Hudson and husband Joseph of Alabama; great grandchildren, Sophia Stark, Oaklie Stark, and Paisley Hudson; and many nieces, nephews, church family and friends.
Joan was preceded in death by her son, Craig Kessinger; grandson, Stephon Kessinger, parents, E.D. and Velma LeBleu; sisters, Janice Ross and baby sister, Judy LeBleu.
In lieu of flowers the family has requested donations be made to Southgate Church of Christ Memorial Fund, 528 Country Club Road San Angelo, TX 76904.
Online condolences, tributes and memorials can be shared with the family at www.heartlandfuneralhome.net.
