Esther Garcia Salazar

In Loving Memory of
Esther Garcia Salazar
August 11, 1951 – July 3, 2025
Esther Garcia Salazar, 73, of Austin, Texas, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 3, 2025. Born on August 11, 1951, in Gilroy, California, she was the youngest of 13 children and brought immense joy and love to all who knew her.
Esther was a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. She was fiercely independent, deeply compassionate, and endlessly giving. Her presence was a constant source of comfort, wisdom, and strength. She had an unshakable faith that guided her through life and sustained her through her final days.
She is best remembered as "Nana" by her beloved grandsons-Samuel, William, Jacob, and Thomas-who were the absolute joys of her life. Esther was their greatest cheerleader, unwavering supporter, and fiercest defender. With warm hugs and wise counsel, she poured love into every moment with them. Her legacy of love, strength, and kindness lives on in each of them.
Professionally, Esther worked at the Austin Municipal Courthouse and later at the Westlake Municipal Courthouse, where she formed lasting friendships. Beyond the workplace, Esther built deep and meaningful bonds with countless friends over the years-women and men she cherished as chosen family and whom she considered her sisters and brothers in every way.
Following her retirement, Esther embraced the chance to travel and reconnect with family and friends across the western United States. She was grateful for the adventures she had and the time spent with those she held close to her heart.
Esther found joy in life's simple pleasures-watching football games, sharing meals and laughter with loved ones and friends, and spending time in nature. Whether enjoying a peaceful walk, admiring flowers, or simply sitting outdoors, she found beauty and calm in the natural world. Her warm spirit, sense of humor, and ability to connect deeply with others left a lasting impression on everyone she met.
She is survived by her children, Elaine Salazar Browne; David Salazar; Joe Oliver Salazar and his wife, Hortencia; her four grandchildren: Scott William Browne Jr., Thomas Michael Browne, Samuel Ryan Salazar, and Jacob Austin Salazar; and her beloved siblings, Ramon Garcia Jr., and Margie Garcia Salinas.
Esther's family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate nursing staff at Ascension Seton Medical Center – Austin for their exceptional care during her final days.
A celebration of Esther's life will be held in Austin, Texas, at Weed-Corley-Fish Funeral Home on Saturday, August 2 at 2:00 PM. A second family service and celebration of life will take place in Hollister, California, on Saturday, August 9 at 12:00 PM.
Esther will be deeply missed, but her spirit, love, and legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her.