Esther Emma Jollett

SOUTH PADRE ISLAND, TX. – Esther Belke Jollett, 96, of South Padre Island, Texas passed away on Saturday, October 22, 2022.

Esther was born on September 15, 1926, the daughter of Henry and Emma Belke of Alamo, Texas.

Esther married Lewis L. Jollett (deceased) in 1945. During their 75-year marriage, they lived in several states before settling in Atlanta, Georgia, and later on Lake Lanier.

A beautiful woman inside and out, Esther was the heart of the family. She was devoted to her family and the lessons of balancing work and leisure were passed down to her children. She was a wonderful mother who will be greatly missed. She displayed amazing southern hospitality by always welcoming family, friends, and guests into her home. Where food, music, games, laughter, and stories were shared.

Having grown up on a farm in Texas, she could drive a tractor and then return home to sew a dress and bake a pie. Esther was a talented amateur artist who painted and created stained glass. Her resourcefulness and artistic abilities earned her the title, “Wonder Woman,” from her grandchildren.

As a true Texan, she convinced her husband upon his retirement that it was time to get back to Texas!” Her last thirty years were spent in the state she loved the most.

In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded by her sister, Leona Madden, and brothers, Leonard Belke and Eugene Belke.

Esther is survived by her daughter, Saundra J. Tewes, and son, Lewis D. Jollett (Carol); sisters, Dorothy Morton and Diana Tabor. She is also survived by six grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

The family will receive friends from 10:00-11:00 A.M. Saturday, October 29, 2022, at Ryan Funeral Home, 12819 Spotswood Trail Ruckersville, VA 22968. A graveside service will be held at 11:45 A.M. at Holly Memorial Gardens.

Local arrangements directed by Steven R. Hieu Bailey and Staff have been entrusted to the care of Darling-Mouser Funeral Home at 945 Palm Boulevard in Brownsville, Texas 78520, (956) 546-7111 .