Celeste Wilson, age 90, passed away peacefully on March 13th, 2025, in St. Louis, MO, surrounded by her loving family.
Born on January 14th, 1935, to Jessie L. Rickard and Leonard J. Rickard, Celeste was the first in her family to graduate high school. She worked as an administrative assistant at Maplewood High School, a job she cherished as it allowed her to be close to her children and form lifelong friendships.
Celeste’s life was defined by her unwavering kindness and ability to see the best in everyone. Her greatest joy in life was being a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, affectionately known as “Gi, Gi.” Later in life, Celeste had many adventures with her grandchildren and friends—whether driving through the hills of Ireland with girlfriends, camping in the Rockies with her grandkids, or enjoying a classic bourbon and Coke on the beaches of Mexico and Jamaica.
Celeste had a rare gift of making everyone feel special, whether through a warm embrace, a few wise words, or the twinkle in her eyes that spoke of a life well lived. Her love was the foundation of our family, and her legacy will continue through the lives she touched.
Celeste is survived by her children: Jeffrey (Gwen) Wilson of Fenton, MO; Kathleen (Patrick) Lamb of Santa Fe, NM; Diana DeBaker of Atlantic Beach, FL. She is also survived by her beloved grandchildren: Tim (Amy) Wilson and Courtney (Joe) Lorenz (children of Jeffery and Gwen Wilson); Michael, Ryan, and Fiona Lamb (children of Kathleen and Patrick Lamb); Madison, Sydney, and Grant DeBaker (children of Diana DeBaker). Three amazing great grandchildren: Henry DeGregorio, Kent and Maisey Wilson and countless nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be held on Monday March 17 from 10:00 am -12:00 pm at Kurtis Funeral Home, 10151 Gravois Road, St. Louis, MO.Funeral Mass will be held the same day at 12:30 pm at St.Peter Catholic Church 243 W Argonne Dr, St. Louis, MO. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Celeste’s life
Drarest Kathy, Pat, Mike, Ryan and Fiona, I am so very sorry for your great loss. I know you shared a close qnd loving relationship with your mom/grandma. What beautiful memories you made together. We were lucky to share a few of those times with you.. I have you all in my heart and my prayers. Glo and Randy.
Thank you Celeste, for your wonderful love and kind accepting nature. We can all use that, and learn from you.
Our family has the fondest memories of spending time with you, and yours.
Our sincerest condolences to Kathy, Pat, Mike, Ryan and Fiona.
With love,
The Sarr Family
Thinking of you Diana and your family during this difficult time. My thoughts and prayers are with you. May you know that she will always be with you. Sending hugs from Rhode Island.