Leslie Michelle Wessel, 50, of Smithville, passed away peacefully at her home on January 19, 2025.

Born on May 14, 1974, in Murray, Kentucky, she was the daughter of the late Edgar Van Atta Sleadd Waugh, Jr., and Linda June Outland Walker. Her grandparents were the late Robert and Kathryn Outland and Edgar and Louise Waugh.

Leslie dedicated her life to serving others. She served as the Executive Director at the Hope Center in Mayfield, Kentucky, and held positions at Lighthouse Christian Camp, the United Way of Wilson County and the Upper Cumberland. A proud alumna of Murray State University, she was a cherished sister of the Alpha Omicron Pi sorority. Leslie was a member of Smithville Cumberland Presbyterian Church.

She is survived by her beloved husband, Josh Wessel, and their children, Sarah Kathryn Wessel and Nathaniel David Wessel, all of Smithville. Her brother, Bret Waugh of Encino, California, also mourns her loss.

A celebration of Leslie's life was held on Thursday, January 23, at Smithville Cumberland Presbyterian Church with Bro. Issac Gray officiating.

She was laid to rest in a private family ceremony on Saturday, January 25, in Murray City Cemetery, Murray, Kentucky.

A visitation for family and friend was held on Friday, January 24 at the J.H. Churchill Funeral Home in Murray.

Expressions of sympathy can be made to the Hope Center in Mayfield, Kentucky, Colorectal Cancer Alliance, and the American Cancer Society. 

Love-Cantrell Funeral Home, Smithville, was in charge of the local arrangements.