Esther R. Stedman, 75, of Belvidere died on Friday, December 14, 2012 at 1:50 a.m. in Pine Acres Nursing Home in DeKalb. Esther was born on April 5, 1937 in Belvidere, daughter of Raymond and Meredith (Mackey) Maitland. United in Marriage on April 9, 1954 to Richard Stedman. Esther was a strong Christian woman whose love for her Lord and Savior was the focus and the gift she leaves her family. Many friends and family throughout her life were strengthened in their faith by her testimony. Survived by her husband; children, Laurel Dittbenner, Cheryl (Denham) Reynolds, Marcia Barefield, Meredith (Keith) Smith, Laura Castro, Michael (Wanda) Maitland; 11 grandchildren, 20 great grandchildren; brother, David (Judy) Maitland; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. Preceded in death by her parents and grandson, Phillip Dittbenner. Memorial Service will be held at a later date.