Phyllis J. "PJ" Hesterly

MADISON-Phyllis Joan "PJ" Hesterly, age 91, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Sunday, March 11, 2018.  Born on Jan. 16, 1927, to Gladys and Norman Campbell in Minneapolis, Minn., she was originally named Beverly Deloris Campbell. At the age of 1 1/2, she was adopted by her aunt Yvonne and Clarence Hagberg and was renamed Phyllis Joan Hagberg.  PJ worked for United Airlines in Chicago where she met Maurice E. Hesterly. They were married in St. Cloud, Minn., on June 18, 1946. Throughout the 20 years that Maurice was in service, they lived in Germany, France and many places in the US. During her extraordinary life, PJ worked in various governmental positions, including Radio Free Europe. When they bought their first house in Madison Wisconsin, PJ worked for Lucey Realty and later for Opitz Management for 40 years as a real estate broker and property manager. She was an avid traveler exploring many foreign countries. Istanbul being one of her favorites on a 45 day Mediterranean Cruise. After retiring at age 75, she enjoyed her large growing family, traveling, kibitzing, playing cards, and doing puzzles with family and friends. PJ was a loyal fan of the Badgers and the Green Bay Packers and attended many games.  PJ worked and raised five children, Jim (Patti) Hesterly, Yvonne Slusser, David (Jan) Hesterly, Jo Anne Lalley, and Kathryn (Mark) Zingg; 12 grandchildren, Dawn, Lisa, Jason, Jenny, Amy, Brian, Andy (Violy), Nick (Emily), Sean, Jaimie, Kelsey (Nate), and Paisley (Louis); 13 great-grandchildren, Dominic (Taylor), Devan, Autumn, Jaden, Angelina, Veronica, Irie, Drake, Teagan, Keane, Elijah, Karsyn, Charlotte; and last but not least the latest addition to the family is cute little great-great granddaughter, Eila; as well as nephew, Bob (Gail) Campbell; and niece, Carol (John) Montgomery and their families. PJ was preceded in death by her parents; husband; brother; half sister; aunt; near and dear to her heart, daughter-in-law, Linda Hesterly; and best friends, Friede Henrici and Ruth Bries. She also had the luckiest pets in the world because of her love and constant attention to them. Her dedicated companions, Playboy, Minnie and Ziggy.   The most important thing to know about PJ, was her infectious love of life. She had such a cute giggle that it could only bring a smile to your face when you were around her. She was the life of every party and always enjoyed being around her loving family. PJ will be missed dearly. All who knew her are lucky to have been blessed by her love. In lieu of flowers, PJ lived by "LOL" Lot's of Love and Laugh out Loud, so, we ask that you laugh, love, hug and cherish those around you, play some cards, do a puzzle and as she would say, "add more salt".  The family would like to thank Heartland Hospice and their exceptional staff, Laura, Denise, Andrew, Sylvia, Bailey, David, Stephanie and Heather. You exceeded our expectations with your genuine love and care.   Services will be held on Monday, March 19, 2018, at ST. THOMAS AQUINAS CATHOLIC PARISH, 602 Everglade Drive, Madison, Wisconsin, 53717. Visitation will be held from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., followed by Mass at 6 p.m. After Mass, a light meal will be served. At this time friends and family are encouraged to share their favorite memories of PJ. PJ will be laid to rest at Forest Hill Cemetery on Tuesday, March 20, 2018 at 1:30 p.m. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.