Ilion - Beverly Ann Sestir, 71, of Ilion, passed away on April 22nd, 2026, after a brief illness.

Beverly was born on November 10th, 1954, in Little Falls Hospital, the daughter of Chester and Mary (Ring) Bialock. She attended Little Falls Schools, graduating in 1973.

She continued her education at SUNY Morrisville, graduating with an Associates in Nursing Degree. She began her nursing career in Syracuse but quickly found her true calling at the Mohawk Valley Nursing Home (now the Grand) in Ilion. She held a variety of positions including charge nurse and nursing manager, eventually retiring as a Dayhab specialist after more than 40 years. She took pride in her 40 years of service award presented by The Grand.

On August 18th, 1979, she married the love of her life, Frank Sestir, at Annunciation Church in Ilion. They shared a beautiful 46-year marriage filled with mutual respect and caring. They had 2 children, Craig and Steve, who were their pride and joy. Bev never missed a sporting event for her boys, enthusiastically cheering not only for them but for their teammates as well. Her dedication extended beyond her own family; she was actively involved in the PTA at Barringer Road Elementary School, always supporting her children and their community. That same passion carried on into her role as a grandmother. She adored her grandson and made it a priority to attend every concert, soccer game, and baseball game she possibly could. Being present—fully and joyfully—was one of her greatest gifts.

Bev was someone who brought people together, created lifelong memories, and filled every room with warmth. She was an amazing friend to many and made friendships a priority throughout her life. Annual girls’ trips were a treasured tradition, filled with laughter, adventure, and stories that lasted long after the trips ended. She also loved to travel with her husband and children, as well as with the many groups of friends she held dear. She and Frank were proud snowbirds, spending 16 years traveling annually to Myrtle Beach. Those winters in the sun, surrounded by friends and relaxation, were among her happiest times.

Bev's heart was forever tied to Kyser Lake and the camp she grew up in—a place renovated by her father, Chet, and filled with family history and meaning. Summers were often spent on the boat, enjoying the lake she adored and the company of those she loved most. Whether at Kyser Lake or at home, she was known for her legendary happy hour slush, often enjoyed poolside and always shared generously.

A truly exceptional chef, Bev took great joy in cooking for her extended family and friends. Her meals were an expression of love, and her table was always open. One of her most cherished traditions was her annual Fourth of July party, a gathering so memorable it became legendary. Friends and family looked forward to it every year, knowing it would be filled with great food, laughter, and togetherness.

Surviving is her loving husband, Frank, her sons and daughters-in-law Craig and Tiffany Sestir and Steve and Kali Sestir, all of Ilion. She is also survived by her adored grandson Gavin Stefanski, and her fur grandchildren Fish, Destiny, Onyx, Jade and Slendy. Additionally, Bev is survived by her beloved cousins Joan (Ryan) Piper, Patricia (Harvey) Gibson, and Ann (Robert) Parmely, along with their families. She had a close relationship with her brother-in-law Jim Sestir and his partner Donna Bonk. Also surviving are cousins Monica (Fred) Peek, Marian Grandy, Patty Accattato, and Frank (Valerie) Sestir, Ricky (Judy) Zilkowski, Gary Zilkowski, Scott Wright and Jodi Fremour, along with other cousins and family.

Bev is also survived by many loving friends, including her incredibly close girlfriends Linda (Allen) Edick, Teresa (Leigh) Frye, Lyla (Bob) Palmer, & Pam Vandawalker, and good friends Jake Putch and Lisa Lamica.

She was predeceased by her parents, Chester and Mary Bialock, and Frank's parents, Joseph and Vivian Sestir. Additionally, she was predeceased by her sister-in-law Carol Sestir, along with friends Roger Vandawalker and Marsha Wheeler.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend calling hours at Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego Street, Ilion, New York, from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM on Wednesday, April 29th.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, April 30th beginning at 10:30 am at the Church of the Annunciation in Ilion, with internment immediately following at St. Mary's Cemetery in the town of Herkimer. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Wanderer's Rest Humane Society (7138 Sutherland Dr, Canastota, NY 13032) or Rover's Do Over (2528 Southside Rd., Frankfort, NY 13340).

Above all, Bev will be remembered for her love of life, her loyalty to family and friends, and the joy she brought to others simply by being herself. Her legacy lives on in her family, the friendships she nurtured, and the memories she leaves behind. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by those who were lucky enough to know and love her.

To leave condolences for Bev’s family, please visit www.whiter-hendrix.com.