Esther Ann McClain Boyle

1939 - 2025

Esther Ann McClain Boyle

March 23, 1939 - August 13, 2025

Esther Ann McClain Boyle, 86, of Twin Falls, Idaho, passed away peacefully on August 13, 2025.

Esther was born on March 23, 1939, in Buhl, Idaho, to Chester Walter and Rose Evelyn (Swanson) McClain. Known lovingly by her family as Grammie, Esther lived a life filled with hard work, deep faith, and fierce devotion to her family and community.

She grew up on a potato farm, where she learned the value of perseverance and dedication from an early age. Esther began her education in Castleford, Idaho, where teachers noted her friendly, social nature-though she may have whispered too much in class! Her beautiful singing voice led her to train with Mrs. Bellini and pursue performance throughout her life.

After high school graduation from Huntington Park High in 1957, Esther studied at the University of Colorado Boulder, later attending Link's School of Business in Boise. She also earned an Applied Science certificate from the College of Southern Idaho. Esther became a realtor and enjoyed a long career with Century 21 Real Estate, always keeping her passion for real estate and the housing market alive.

On December 9, 1961, Esther married the love of her life, Darwin LaVard Boyle, after meeting at a bar in Boise. Together, they shared 63 wonderful years of marriage. They began their life together on a farm in Bancroft before settling in Twin Falls to raise their family. Esther supported her children, Dan, Shane, and RoseAnna, in everything they did, particularly their involvement in DeMolay, Job's Daughters, and JUMP Company.

Esther's passion for mentorship and personal development led her to direct the Miss Twin Falls and Miss Southern Idaho Scholarship Programs. She was a strong believer in the Miss America Scholarship Program, seeing it as a vital way for young women to gain life skills and educational opportunities. She was immensely proud of her daughter RoseAnna's journey toward the Miss America stage.

Throughout her life, Esther was active in Eastern Star, the Twin Falls Lions Club, and as a co-founder of JUMP Company. She also loved bridge games at the Blue Lakes Country Club and organizing gatherings with friends.

Esther and Darwin traveled the world together, enjoying cruises and adventures to Hawaii, Australia, New Zealand, China, and Europe. They especially loved the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas shows and spent many joyful hours off-roading in their old Willys Jeep with the "Early Iron" club. Their favorite place, however, was their family cabin in the Boulder Mountains; filled with cozy fires, home-cooked meals, and movies with their grandchildren.

Her role as Grammie brought her the greatest joy. She traveled far and wide; Denver, Kansas City, Connecticut; to be present in her grandchildren's lives, often driving hours to watch a game or concert. Though her own children weren't allowed near her perfectly raked living room carpet, the grandkids were free to eat ice cream on the gold couches; proof of her deep and unconditional love.

Esther remained curious, spirited, and warm into her 80s. She and Darwin lived independently on Sunrise Avenue, always ready to offer a sandwich and conversation. You couldn't visit without telling her everything that was going on! Her strong Christian faith anchored her life, and she often shared her hope in Jesus with friends and family.

Esther and Darwin eventually moved into Bridgeview Estates, where they remained until their passing. She will be remembered there by her trademark smile, messy bun hair and perfect red lipstick. The family appreciates the work and caring of the staff at Bridgeview as well as Visions Hospice, during this challenging time.

Esther is survived by her children, Darwin Dan Boyle (Sherrie Belnap Boyle); and grandchildren, Virginia Rose Boyle, Michael Edwin Boyle, and William Lavar Boyle, Michael Shane Boyle, and RoseAnna Boyle Holliday (Russell Scott Holliday II); and grandchildren, Christian Scott Holliday and Kevin John Holliday; her sister, Mary Rose McClain Stadstad; and nieces, Robin Marie Stadstad, Amy Ann Stadstad, Kristin Kay McClain, and April McClain Delaney (John Kevin Delaney); and nephew, Alexander Thomas McClain (Kathleen Urland McClain).

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Darwin LaVard Boyle; her parents; brothers, Tom Chester McClain (Laurel Kay Hugie McClain) and Donald Walter McClain; and brother-in-law, Gerald Duane Stadstad.

A remembrance service will be held on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, at White Reynolds Funeral Chapel in Twin Falls. A viewing will begin at 1 p.m., followed by a ceremony at 2 p.m., and a short graveside service at Twin Falls Cemetery. A catered reception at the Holliday home will follow the graveside service. All are welcome; the family looks forward to remembering Esther with you.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Miss America Scholarship Program, a cause Esther deeply believed in.

https://themissamericafoundation.org/donate/.