Esther Earl

Esther (nee. Rice) Earl of Allen Park, Michigan, went to be with the Lord on June 22, 2025 at the age of 96.

Born on July 19, 1928, in Bell County, Kentucky, as the youngest child of Palestine and Elisabeth Rice, Esther lived a life grounded in kindness and faith - to her family, friends and, above all, to the Lord. She found joy in serving at church, singing the gospel, the quiet comfort of family, her faithful dogs, growing tomatoes and beautiful flowers, and praying for those she loved and cared for. In her later years, every well-prepared, home-cooked meal for her was "the best she ever had". Esther had a gentle spirit and was a devoted grandmother with a soft but powerful influence, teaching macrame, gardening and how to make the best pancakes. Known as "Mommy 2" to some of her grandsons, she had a great laugh, an even better giggle and a beautiful smile.

Esther was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas Earl, and her daughters, Tommie Jean Shackelford and Connie Balog.

She leaves behind her daughters, Patsy Lamont and Vickie Springborn; her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren and many relatives and friends who will miss her dearly.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, June 26, 2025 from 12:00PM until the time of the funeral service at 2:00PM at Manns Family Funeral Home, 17000 Middlebelt, Livonia, Michigan 48154. All who were touched by her life are welcome to attend and share in honoring Esther's memory.

She is now at peace in the arms of her Savior.