Hester Spurlock (nee Johnson), age 82, passed away peacefully on June 26, 2025, in Crestwood, Illinois. Born on October 5, 1942, in Birmingham, Alabama, but was raised in the Bronzeville area of Chicago, Illinois.  Hester lived a life marked by dedication, faith and quiet strength.

She was the daughter of Cornelia Johnson (nee Parker) and Herman Johnson. Hester pursued education through correspondence school and trained as a court stenographer—an occupation that reflected her precision and commitment. She later worked for many years at the Illinois Public Aid Office and served faithfully as a church secretary at Maple Park United Methodist Church.

Music was one of Hester’s lifelong joys. She played the piano and sang with grace, sharing her talents to uplift others. In high school she played in the DuSable High School Jazz Band.  Her warm presence touched many lives.

A woman of deep faith, Hester was an active member of both Maple Park United Methodist Church and Arnett AME Church in Chicago. Her devotion to her spiritual communities was a cornerstone of her life.

Hester shared many cherished years with her husband, Johnnie Spurlock, who preceded her in death; Together they raised their son, Willard Spurlock, who survives her; She is also survived by his partner, Danielle; and her daughter, Noelle, both of whom shared in Hester’s later years with affection and care.

In addition, she is survived by her sister, Delores Spratt; brothers, Manfred Johnson and Raymond Johnson; nieces, Onai Spratt and Denise Spratt; nephew, Kenneth Spratt; and is fondly remembered by all who knew her. Hester was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Adolph Johnson and Rudolph Johnson; and husband, Johnnie Spurlock.

In recent years, Hester met the challenges of dementia with quiet resilience. She spent her final years at Crestwood Rehabilitation Center surrounded by care and comfort.

May the memory of Hester Spurlock bring peace to those whose lives she touched.

Funeral Services will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 8, 2025 at KISH FUNERAL HOME 10000 Calumet Ave. Munster, IN.  Interment will be private. Visitation will be on Tuesday, at the funeral home from 3:00p.m. until the 6:00 p.m. service.

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