Esther was born on August 25, 1942 in Gaston County, North Carolina, to the Late Lorene Stamey Edwards.

In addition to her mother, she was preceded in death by two sisters, Barbara Edwards Phinex and Estella Marie Stamey; and two brothers, James W. Stamey and William Edwards.

She leaves to mourn a loving husband of 36 years, James Kessler; one daughter, Rena F. Tillman (James) of Ashland, VA, and one brother, George Edwards, Jr. of Lincolnton, NC; two sister's and two brother's in-law, Kay, Veronika, Michael and Leon; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends and her entire church family all of whom she loved whole heartedly.

Esther 2:17

"Now the king was attracted to Esther more than to any of the other women, and she won his favor and approval more than any of the other virgins. So he set a royal crown on her head and made her queen instead of Vashti."

A public viewing will be held on Monday, November 29, 2021 in the Goldie Hargett Memorial Chapel, 905 E. Market Street, Greensboro from 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm.  A homegoing celebration will be held on Tuesday, November 30, 2021 in the Goldie Hargett Memorial Chapel.  Visitation with the family begins at 10:30 am followed by the service at 11:00 am.  Interment will follow in Forest Lawn Cemetery.