Earnestine (Scott) Ester was born on July 14, 1939 in St. Joseph, Louisiana, to Fred D. SR and Ellen B. Scott. She peacefully departed this life at the age of 86, on April 19, 2026, at her home in Cleveland, Ohio. Earnestine was the oldest of eight siblings.

Earnestine attended Barberton Public Schools. She went on to get an Associate’s degree from Tri-C Community College. She developed a deep love for learning and was an avid reader, if there was something printed, she would read it. Her curiosity and passion for knowledge remained with her throughout her life, enriching both her mind and the conversations she shared with family and friends.

Earnestine loved to travel and was always “passport ready.” Germany, Hawaii, Mexico, and Alaska were among the many places she explored, along with several memorable cruises that brought her great joy and adventure.

Earnestine exceled in several demanding career fields. “She retired as a Federal Government worker, serving 11 years as an Air Traffic Controller before transitioning into a VA Hospital administrator role supporting the eye clinic, while simultaneously building a successful career as a real estate agent with Charles Glaster Realty, where she was known to sell and list anything from a mansion to laid out dog house. She was great at it. With each role she played she did it with class, precision, grace, integrity and love. Her degree allowed her to work with women and children who were going thru life’s challenges. Through this work, she demonstrated a deep commitment to helping others navigate difficult circumstances with dignity and hope. Her professionalism, strength, and warm spirit touched the lives of many. She introduced several families to her family, where they were accepted and loved like blood relatives.

Earnestine leaves many to cherish her memory; children, Linda Scott, Matthew Rogers (Nellie), and Lee Ester (Cheryl). Her siblings Fred Scott (Katherine, Robert Scott, Mac Kenzie Scott

(Marika), Debra Doaty, Lelia Cheatham (David), and Carter Scott. Earnestine also leaves behind her beloved grandchildren; Chanika, Danielle, and Kendall. And her great-grandchildren: Alona, Lyric, Zion, Legend, and Adeline. She additionally leaves a host of loving cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who cherished her presence and love..

She was preceded in death by her parents, daughter Jacqui Calhoun, brother Ted Scott and granddaughter Yvette Wentz.

Earnestine was deeply loved and supported by many wonderful friends and prayer warriors. The family sincerely thanks Walter Harrington, Debra Gaines, Veronica Lenin, Darcy Desatnik, and all who lifted her and our family in prayer, love, and encouragement throughout her journey. A very special thank you is extended to her prayer group: Karen Brown-Morris, Novella Sullivan, Johnnie Scott, Linda Shaw, Ruby Roby, Marian Stanley, Shynetta Thompson, Valarie Ray, Beverly Morton, Veronica Lenin, and Gail Strickland.

The family would also like to thank everyone who helped give Earnestine her flowers while she was here.

Earnestine was not only a respected family member, reliable colleague, and trusted friend, but also a woman who lived with purpose, compassion, and grace. She leaves behind a lasting legacy of love, perseverance, wisdom, and care.

One of her favorite sayings, “Everything is in divine order, and so it is,” will forever remain in our hearts and ears.