Esther DeMint, age 82, of Miles City passed away on Thursday, June 30, 2016 at her home in Miles City surrounded by her family.
Esther was born on October 17, 1933 in Dayton, Ohio, the daughter of George and Mary (Leach) Kelley. She grew up in Dayton and attended Washington Elementary School, Wilbur Wright High School in Dayton and her junior and senior years at Mount Carmel High School in Vancleve, Kentucky. She then attended Kentucky Mountain Bible College where she graduated. She married James DeMint on August 27, 1954 in Dayton, Ohio. To this union, six children were born. She and her husband pastored several churches in several cities and states. She moved to Miles City in 1976.
Esther was a member of the Wesleyan Church where she served as a Sunday School Teacher, board member and Easter Outreach Founder.
Esther is survived by her six children: Merry (Marty) VanCleave of Helena, MT; Joy (Rick) Huber of Miles City, MT; James David (Jeannette) DeMint of Billings, MT; Jeanie (Pete) Clancy of Gillette, WY; Melody DeMint of Miles City, MT; and Debra (Jerod) Lee of Boise, ID; seventeen grandchildren, twenty three great grandchildren, a sister Iris VanMeter of Thayer, KS; and numerous nieces and nephews who loved her very much. She was preceded in death by her parents, a sister Aline, two grandsons Josh and Daniel and great grandson Phillip.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, July 7, 2016 at Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home with family receiving friends from 4:00-6:00 p.m. Funeral services will be held on Friday, July 8, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. at the Wesleyan Church. Interment will follow in the Custer County Cemetery. Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home of Miles City is in charge of the arrangements.
Should friends desire, memorials may be made to Miles City Wesleyan Church.
Service Schedule
Family to Receive Friends
4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Thursday July 7, 2016
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home
1717 Main Street
Miles City, MT 59301
Funeral Service
11:00 a.m.
Friday July 8, 2016
Miles City Wesleyan Church
916 Garland Street
Miles City, MT 59301
Interment
following funeral service
Friday July 8, 2016
Custer County Cemetery
Miles City, MT 59301
Service Schedule
Family to Receive Friends
4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Thursday July 7, 2016
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home
1717 Main Street
Miles City, MT 59301
Funeral Service
11:00 a.m.
Friday July 8, 2016
Miles City Wesleyan Church
916 Garland Street
Miles City, MT 59301
Interment
following funeral service
Friday July 8, 2016
Custer County Cemetery
Miles City, MT 59301
Share
Kathi Rooney Pfeifle says
Debbie, Mel and families.
I am so very sorry for the loss of your mom. You and your families are in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
James Howe says
Gone Home! Rest in peace, DEAR Lady. My prayers to the family to help them accept the huge change in their lives. God’s peace and grace to you all.
Mike & Judy Toennis Family says
Our thoughts and prayers are with your families.
Amy Losing says
My thoughts and prayers are with you all. I enjoyed getting to know and work with your mom she always told us fun stories.
Greg and Linda Losinski says
We are so sorry for your loss. We know your mother will be missed. She was a great lady!
Verlin and Bernadette Miller says
We have both known Esther for many years and we know how many lives she has touched with her special smile and good life. She was a great lady.
Mike & Myrna Higgins says
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all….Mike and Myrna
Mike and Linda Wyse says
Rest in peace, thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Remember the good times. Esther will be missed, she touched alot of hearts.
Jim & Cathy Bastian says
Our prayers are with you as you go through this hard time. What a sweet lady your mom was! We so enjoyed her when she would come in the store. She was always thinking of ways to bless the kids at church, or what to have as snacks for VBS, she would try to go as fast as her feet would travel! She left you all a wonderful legacy, caring about others. Esther was a blessing!
Terry and Charice Virag says
So sorry to here of Your mom passing. No more pain and in the hands of our creator now in heaven What a great Lady she was.. May God bless you all
Ken and Joyce Holmlund says
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all! Esther will be missed she was a wonderful lady! Remember all the good times.
Sandi and Jim Updyke says
We are saddened to hear of your moms passing. May the memories of all your wonderful times sustain you during this difficult time. Esther was a very sweet lady. Heaven gained a very special angel God bless you all. Jim and Sandi (Holter ) Updyke
Marcia Heydt and Family says
I am saddened to learn of Esther passing. Peace and Love to all of her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Esther’s love for her family knew no bound’s, and her beautiful family loved their mother and Nana; over the moon. It is difficult imaging the world without you, Esther. My angels lead you home…
Maureen Larson says
So sorry to hear of Esther’s passing and my thoughts & prayers are with you all. I was very fortunate to know Esther and what a wonderful, kind lady she was. Always had smile on her face & a good word for everyone & left everyone she touched a better person. May God bless and comfort you during this difficult time.
Kevin and Sheila Krausz says
Esther was a lovely lady. She will be missed. God bless.
STAN AND MARY BRIXEY says
WE ARE SO SORRY TO HAVE LOST A WONDERFUL FRIEND WE’VE HAD FOR YEARS!WE KNOW WE CAN SEE HER SOMEDAY SOON.THE HURT IS THERE,BUT WE KNOW TOO SHE IS IN NO MORE PAIN.GOD BLESS THE DEMINT FAMILIES AND THE VANMETERS.STAN AND MARY BRIXEY
Debra Moore says
Even though I am sorry for your loss, I know she is rejoicing. What a wonderful lady.
I am so glad to had time to get to know her. Blessings to you all.
Tina webb says
So very sorry to hear of your loss
Kelly Dodge Tarr says
That sweet sweet smile of hers.. such a lovely lady.
Rick & Dee Abbott says
Deeply saddened for your loss – I enjoyed working with Esther at the “old” Holy Rosary Hospital – she had the BEST costumes at Halloween. Rest well, sweet lady!!
Darbie Karch and Family says
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of Esther ‘ s family at this difficult time. May God guide you and comfort you as you get through this.
Mary Ann Stockhill Liles & Jim Liles says
Esther was such a lovely lady. Our sympathy goes to her family.
Vicky Boggs Snyder says
What a truly beautiful lady and woman of God, with a matching sense of humor. Thoughts and prayers for strength and comfort. From her former classmate, Ellen Boggs, and family.
Deb says
To my dear Mother, I will always be thankful for the lessons you taught to me, the strength you showed to me, the love you gave to me, and the gift you shared with me. I cannot wait to see you on the other side. Your absence is only for a short time…
I will miss our talks.
Love you, Deb
Timber abbott says
I always called her grandma when I was at church with her I remember her always telling me that she took my mom to church when she was a little girl and see me grow up in the church was just a blessing I love her very much she was a great wonderfully lady and so are all her kids and grandkids. I always made sure she knew I was at church so she knew I had made it my very last words were I am glad to see u made it today iblove u and hop you get to feeling better and she looked at me and said well of course I will love u to with a kiss to the cheek she would bring tears of joy to run down my face. Very good lady and I am glad she is no longer in pain and that she is with the good Lord “he is risen”
Steven Larry says
I am very sorry for your loss! You are in my thoughts!
April Thompson says
Joy, Melody and family you are in my thoughts and prayers. Rest in peace Dear Esther.
Gene & VIckie Schneidt says
Esther was a delight to all that met her and one of the sweetest people we knew.
Jay Nunn says
So sorry for your loss Mel.
shelley Johnson says
Heaven has gained a wonderful angel. When I was a young girl going to the Wesleyan church Esther was our Sunday School teacher, we would sing songs, Esther would make sure we sang them loud enough that Jesus would hear us. Esther was a wonder woman she will be greatly missed. To Esther’s family and friends, sorry for your loss.
Ann johnson says
I met Easter many years ago at the old HRH. Over the years her personality never changed, she alway had a caring heart a kind word and usually something funny to tell. She was a wonderful beautiful lady. Heaven gained a true angel when Easter walked thru those pearly gates.
Sandi Kohones says
I am so sorry to know that such a sweet person is no longer with us. She took such great care of so many people including my dear father in law , George. What a dear, warm hearted soul ! She will be missed !
Carol & Blackie Schneider says
Oh my sweet Esther, may you rest in peace and rejoice with the Lord. I am happy to have know you for many years. May your beautiful family heal with God’s love and enjoy the memories and grace that you have left behind. I always said if everyone was as sweet and caring as you, the world would be a better place.
David DeMint says
Mom I wanted to pick up the telephone and call you…..then I realized that you are no longer here on earth ….I wished that Heaven had a phone….I know that you are in a much better place…NO more pain or suffering…Thanks for all the good qualities that you bestowed upon me…..and thanks for my Five sisters….I will miss your prayers…..and our talks almost every morning on my way to work…Like you said don’t say goodbye but see you later…..I will see you again in Heaven…What a day that will be…. .love you Mom!!!! your only son David
Dale & Cindy Berg says
Joy and family,
So sorry to about your mom. Keeping you all in our thoughts and prayers.
God Bless.
Tom and Cindy Erickson says
I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your mom and grandma! I loved working with Esther at the hospital – she was always a bright spot in what could be a busy, stressful day! Such a nice person! Know that you are all in our thoughts and prayers…take care!
Jeri Dalbec says
So sorry to learn that Esther passed away. What a beautiful lady. Thoughts and prayers for the family. RIP, Esther.
Dick Tallent & Deb Tallent says
To all the family my sympathy for your loss. Esther’s spirit was unforgettable. A prayer worrier, she was filled with the spirit and had such a great love for the Lord. He is greeting her with a smile and arms wide open I’m sure. When she prayed for you, you knew God was going to work for you in a big way. The world is less without her, but she is at home now among the saints.
Melody DeMint says
Mom I miss you more than anyone will ever know or imagine. You were my rock my constant reminder to do what’s good and right. You taught me that even though I may not have the richest pocket book I could still give to others with my heart and help others in need and less fortunate. I can’t begin to express all the things you taught me and how important it is to be a Christian and live my life for God. Your prayers for me and others were constant and never failed to be one of God’s prayer warriors for everyone who needed salvation . I am so happy for all the years we spent together and thank God for giving me a mother that was a great example and a mother who was dedicated to me and all of our family. I’m so thankful God gave me YOU!! I can’t express how heart broken and sad I am without you here to love me and guide me the rest of the way but finding comfort and peace that you are no longer suffering or in pain. Im looking forward to spending our eternal home in heaven together where we will rejoice and be reunited again. I love you Mom and will always be thankful for our precious time together even if we were so much alike that we sometimes clashed with our stubborness and head strong ways we always knew we loved each other no matter why who when or what was going on in our lives. Noone can take our memories away or replace the love we had as mother and daughter. I won’t say good bye Mom but I will promise I will see you later. Forever grateful to have you for my beautiful sweet caring funny christian mother.. your forever grateful and loving daughter , Melody Ann
Shirley Rolf says
You are in our thoughts.
Sandy McFarland Hays says
Sending prayers and sympathy to help you through this difficult time. Hold on to and cherish
all of the wonderful memories.
Melinda Tangen says
Esther was a woman who always put the Lord first in her life. She was a woman who set an example of how much she loved her Lord and she never hesitated to tell you how much he loved her. Her sense of humor was the best and she was ever humble. She put others before self and prayed diligently for any need somone shared with her. I was saddened to hear this beautiful saint had passed away, but there is no doubt she is present with the Lord! My thoughts are with her dear family whom she adored. You have been so blessed to have her for your mom. Her legacy truly lives on in all of the chikdren she has mothered, loved and prayed over in her years of ministry. Some are grown with children of their own now, but will never forget how she would never let them go with out telling them, “Jesus loves you today”! Rest in the arms of you Saviour Esther!
Cathy Pyle says
I just loved your mom!! You all are in my thoughts and hope you find peace soon.
Larry A DeMint says
What wonderful memories of a special aunt who was such a person of grace, wit, fun and perseverance. The world was such a better place by her life here and this world would be a much better place if there were more people like her. My love and prayers to her wonderful family. Larry A and Rene’ DeMint
Sandy Rabe says
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Sandy
Penny Love Hendrickson says
Esther was a great woman of God. I remember her coming to visit my mom Mabel Love in the nursing home in Miles City. What a beautiful soul she was. My condolences to the family. May God give you peace.
Penny Love Hendrickson (daughter of Charles and Mabel Love)
Casey & Cindy Phalen says
My thoughts and prayers are with you all. I have so many great stories. I remember the time she made praying hands in the PT department where she worked. It was so cool. I thought i had went to Oral Roberts in Tusla OK. she was so much fun.
Keep your memories close and all the good times. it will help you through.
Love you all Casey & Cindy.
Melody Jungels says
Rick and Joy, I am so sorry to hear of your Mom’s passing. I met her a couple of times in my life and always enjoyed her company. She was a great “Lady” with a kind heart and a great sense of humor. God watch over both of you and keep you close at this difficult time. You will continue to be in my prayers.
Linda Leach Cravens says
I am Linda Cravens,I am Ester and Iris first cousin.My father was Roger Clark Leach Esters mothers brother.I really never got to know them.But aunt Susie leach Stevens.brought Ester and Iris to our house once must have been early fiftyes.I remember they were very pretty ,and that Ester had the longest braids wrapped around her head,I have always thought she had the prettiest hair I had every seen.I have met Iris once since then,I hope to stay in touch with her. Sorry I never got to meet Esters children.My address is 405 south main st. Winchester,Ky.40391 home phone is 859-744-5905 And I am on face book.Praying God will give each of you loving comfort in your grief at this hard time. Your second cousin Linda
DJ & Chad Arnoldt says
We were very sad to hear of Esther’s passing. She was a very special lady and will be missed. I have many fond memories, growing up in the Wesleyan Church, of her smile, her laughter, and her kindness. She was one of the Lord’s most dedicated servants and has gone home for a well deserved rest.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you,
DJ & family
jason k. says
Mel so sorry to hear about your mom passing I know how much you loved her. Your mom was as sweet as an angel and protective of you like a mama bear making me jump thru hoops just to see you and asking me a million questions but I admired her and respected her anyway. If you need anything I’m here for you my friend. Take care please, Jason
PAT HERZOG says
Joy and family..so sorry for ur loss..you’re in our thoughts and prayers..all your memories you shared will in time help you heal your broken hearts..all our love and prayers Pat and Monte Herzog
Diana Stieg says
My thoughts and prayers are with you.