It is with profound sadness that the Koesten family announces the passing of their beloved daughter, Leah Mikhael Koesten, a dedicated mental health counselor, skilled substance abuse counselor and compassionate relationship coach.
Leah fought bravely over the last 15 months against stage three, triple-negative breast cancer and ultimately died of complications from her treatment on July 28, leaving behind a legacy of unwavering commitment to improving the lives of those she served.
Leah earned a Bachelor of Business Administration and Management degree from Washburn University in Topeka, Kansas, and a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from the University of West Alabama in Livingston, Alabama.
Leah was a beacon of generosity, kindness and understanding, dedicated to developing her role as a provisionally licensed therapist with Rebecca Wilson Therapy and Counseling Services in Nashville, Tennessee.
Her professional journey was informed by her lifelong struggle with depression and anxiety, which gave her a deep-seated passion for helping others navigate their own personal trauma and emotional struggles.
Leah's life experience, subsequent training in substance abuse counseling and certification as a relationship coach allowed her to offer a unique and empathetic approach to therapy, impacting countless lives with her insightful guidance and heartfelt support.
Over the course of 12 years, Leah built a wonderful community of friendship in her adopted home of Nashville. She was an active member of a strong recovery community, recently celebrating her 12th year in recovery.
She was also a passionate and proud member of the Nashville Symphony Chorus. Her friends from the alto section nourished her during her cancer treatment with many home visits, phone calls and meals. Her director, Dr. Biddlecomb, shared his notes about Leah’s audition when he notified the alto section of Leah’s passing: “beautiful voice, but difficult to classify. She’ll fit wherever she ends up going.” Singing with the chorus sustained Leah in so many ways over the years, and her family is forever grateful to the people in this organization.
Leah’s dedication extended far beyond the confines of her professional practice. Her genuine compassion and desire to make a difference were evident in every interaction. She approached each person she met with an open heart and a commitment to their wellbeing, earning the respect and admiration of friends, colleagues and clients alike.
Leah loved crime shows and psychological thrillers, and she was fascinated with the human psyche. She was loving, kind, generous, always fashionably dressed, funny, smart, and had a twisted sense of humor.
Leah was intolerant of hate, bigotry and meanness. She was a definitive “cat lady” and was excited about voting for Kamala Harris in the upcoming election.
Leah's legacy is one of hope, resilience and the power of compassionate care. Her work not only helped individuals heal and grow but also inspired those around her to approach life with greater empathy and understanding. Leah's light and dedication will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing and working with her.
Leah is survived by her parents, Stewart and Joy Koesten of Boynton Beach, Florida; her sister, Natalie, brother-in-law, Thom Hoskins, and their children, Nikko and Arthur Hoskins of Murfreesboro, Tennessee; and her grandfather Glenn Erna Barclay of Springfield, Missouri; as well as aunts, uncles and cousins.
Leah was preceded in death by her grandparents, Herman and Lotte Koesten of Stony Point, New York; and her grandmother Carol Lee Crabtee Barclay of Springfield.
A graveside service for Leah was held on Aug. 2 at Star of David Memorial Chapel in North Lauderdale, Florida. The family received condolences at their home in Boynton Beach following the service.
A celebration of Leah’s life will be held on Sunday, Aug. 11, in Nashville.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in her memory to The Joy and Stewart Koesten Endowed Professorship in Developmental and Behavioral Health (support.childrensmercy.org/LeahKoesten) and/or the Nashville Symphony Chorus (donate2.app/IAkYVL).
While the family’s hearts are broken from this sudden loss, they are comforted knowing that Leah’s spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those she touched, a reminder of the profound impact one dedicated and loving individual can have on the world.
