Esther Blythe

1 Eulogy For Esther L. Blythe December 12, 1942 to December 2, 2025 Today we gather in love, in remembrance, and in deep gratitude for the life of Esther L. Blythe – a woman whose presence lit the world with kindness, strength, beauty, and an unshakeable spirit. Born on December 12 1942, Esther grew into a woman who lived life with purpose and heart. She carried within her a rare combination of gentleness and determination – soft in spirit yet strong in will. She believed in hard work, in loving deeply, and in giving freely. Anyone who knew her could feel that deeply loving spirit, one that embraced others without hesitation and lifted those around her. Esther was another first and always. Her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, and even a few great great grandchildren were her pride, her joy, and her greatest legacy. She poured all of herself into raising them, teaching them resilience, compassion, and the courage to strive for better. Through them, her light continues on. Also dear to her heart was Rebecca Tramp, Cathy Maitlen, and passed before her, Kim Dilley. Esther had a living relative, Nancy Small, with whom she shared lifelong memories. Esther also held a unique place in her family's story. She was the last surviving sibling of Franklin, Shirley, Pete, Joe, and Eddie Wayman. She carried their memories with her, honoring the roots from which she came. Throughout her life, Esther loved deeply and was deeply loved in return. She shared parts of her journey with her husbands – Hershel Wade Gordon, Frederick Dwight Horine, Berl William Blythe, and John Franklin Stevenson – each chapter shaping the remarkable woman she became 2 She also leaves behind many grandchildren and great grandchildren who carry pieces of her heart into the generations ahead. Their names will be remembered as part of her living legacy. Esther’s life was rich – rich in love, in experience, in perseverance, and in the bonds she built. She touched lives with her kindness, inspired others with her strength, and left behind a family who will never forget her laughter, her lessons, or her warmth. But Esther was also a woman of tremendous ambition, speaking multiple languages. She was on a California Women's Roller Derby team (the Thunderbirds) in the 60s. She built a remarkable career as an Iron Worker, stepping boldly into a demanding field where few women of her time stood. She later pursued her calling as a caregiver, becoming a Certified LPN. Never one to stop learning, she went on to earn a degree in Psychology, where she excelled and made the Dean's List. Her path led her into being a pharmacy tech. Another testament to her lifelong dedication to understanding and helping others. She also spent time as a 21 Dealer at the Riverside Casino in Laughlin, NV. Her accomplishments were many, but her humility made them shine all the brighter. Beyond her work, she also enjoyed embracing life's simple joys. She loved thrifting and had a gift for finding beauty and history in the antiques she discovered. Her jewelry brought her joy – a reflection of her own sparkle – and she enjoyed the excitement of going to the Casino. Treasure Bay was her favorite, where she brought her spirited determination and love of adventure. Today, though our hearts are heavy, we also celebrate a life fully lived, a mother deeply cherished, and a woman whose spirit remains unbroken and undimmed. Esther's journey on earth July 15, 2023. Son and his wife: Hershel Wade and Tonja Gordon Grandchildren: Wade, Frederick, David, and Tiesha Son: James Allen Gordon Grandchildren: James, Jennifer, John, Esther Marie, and Baby Shipley (deceased) Son and his wife: Billy Jean and Fran Gordon Grandchildren: Billie Jo, Lynette, Chad, and Brian Son: Frederick Jerrett Horine Grandchildren: Frederick and Jessica Daughter and her husband: Mary Lou Courtney and Richard Robert Courtney Grandchildren: Richard, Ronny, and Ryan Daughter and her husband: Teisha Paulette Ledbetter and Mark Tracy Ledbetter Grandchildren: Zachary Lawson, Mark, Timothy, and Sabrina And several great grandchildren and great great grandchildren 4 May she rest in Heaven reunited with her son Billy, as well as those who passed before her, and remembered always for the extraordinary woman she was. She passed with all her children at her side. She was loved and cherished to her last breath. REST IN PEACE Esther, your legacy shines on

Esther Blythe

December 2, 2025

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Esther Blythe

December 2, 2025

What We Do

Flowers & Gifts

Plan Ahead

About Us

Resources

Obituaries

Grief & Healing

Contact Information

Obituary Notification