Ethel Osmotherly

Ethel Louise (Parsons) Osmotherly was born on Nov. 10, 1938, in Custer, S.D., to Leslie and Verna (Stanton) Parsons. She grew up on a farm west of Custer in a large, close-knit family and graduated from Custer High School in 1957.
While attending a dance in Custer, she met the love of her life, William Henry “Bill” Osmotherly. They were united in marriage on Nov. 24, 1957. To this union, four sons were born: Richard William, Robert Rue, Steven Allen and Keith Eugene.
Soon after their marriage, Ethel and Bill moved to Nebraska, where they farmed and ranched together. Ethel was employed at Chadron Community Hospital for many years before retiring. She treasured the memories and the many friendships she formed during her time there.
Ethel loved spending time with her family, creating arts and crafts and attending her sons’ and grandchildren’s school events. In earlier years, she also enjoyed square dancing. Her faith was central to her life.
Ethel, 87, went to be with Jesus Feb. 24, 2026.
A celebration of her life was March 6 at Christ Community Church in Crawford, Neb., with Pastor Steve Mallery officiating. Burial followed at Evergreen Cemetery in Hot Springs, S.D. Memorials may be made to Ponderosa Villa in Crawford.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Bill, with whom she celebrated 63 years of marriage before his passing; her parents; her parents-in-law; and many brothers and sisters.
Survivors include her sons, Richard (Shannon) of Torrington, Wyo., Robert (Jeanne) of Crawford, Steven (Wendy) of Moorcroft, Wyo., and Keith (Janice) of Gillette, Wyo.; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; sister, Sandy Osmotherly of Oelrichs, S.D.; sisters-in-law Shirley Parsons of Custer, Janice Parsons of Fargo, N.D., and Linda Parsons of Tulsa, Oklahoma; as well as many nieces and nephews.