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Virginia Irene Ester, affectionately known as Ginny or Toodie to her friends and family, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great grandmother, sister, and aunt, passed away peacefully on July 15th, 2025 surrounded by her loving family at Bethesda North Hospital in Montgomery, Ohio. She was 93 years old.
Born on June 12, 1932 in Weaverville, North Carolina, Ginny was the daughter of Robbin and Samuel Sheppard and grew up the only girl among four siblings. Her childhood brought her to Cincinnati, Ohio, where she would later create a life filled with love and dedication. She is preceded in death by her parents and brothers Gene, Bob, and Jerry.
Ginny was the cherished wife of Ernest I. Ester until his passing in 2003. She is the proud mother of Patricia McDonald (Timothy) and is reunited in spirit with her daughter, Janice Ester, who preceded her in death in 2004 after a courageous battle with cancer. Ginny's legacy lives on through her two grandchildren Jennifer Coleman (Jeremiah), and Julie Fitts (Matthew). She was the beloved great-grandmother to Ethan, Morgan, Ben, Izzy, Sam, Joey, Allie, and Maggie. She also held the title of great-great grandmother to Lily and Ezra. Additionally, she was the treasured aunt to Robbin Leonard (Dave), Pete Sheppard (Regina), Rebecca Sheppard (Mark) and April Landin (Ben). She was preceded in death by her nephews, Dave & Sam.
For 37 years, Ginny dedicated herself to her work at the Beechmont License Bureau, a role that brought her joy and a sense of community. She was a familiar face in Anderson Township, recognized not only for her warm spirit, but also for her famously beautiful white hair. Ginny had a passion for shopping, gardening, and solving crossword puzzles, which brought her an immense sense of joy.
Above all, Ginny's greatest love was for her family. She devoted herself wholeheartedly to caring for her daughter Jan during her years of illness and was steadfast support to her mother until her passing. Ginny lived for her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren, embracing each moment spent with them. To all who knew her, she was simply Grandma.
Her legacy of love, kindness, and resilience will forever be cherished by her family, who hold her memory close to their hearts. Ginny will be loved and remembered always.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Ginny's name to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, a cause that reflects her generous spirit.
Funeral service will be held on Monday, July 28, 11 AM at T.P. White & Sons Funeral Home (2050 Beechmont Ave.) where visitation will be held from 10 AM until the time of service
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and condolences can be left on the obituary at the funeral home website.
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