Esther L. Lawrence, 79

Dalton — Esther L. Lawrence, age 79, of Dalton, formerly of Orrville, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 18, 2024, at her residence, surrounded by her loving family, following a period of declining health.

Esther was born on July 27, 1944, in Norfolk, Virginia, to the late Elmer and Sarah (Bender) Yoder. She graduated from South High School in Garrett County, Maryland in 1962. On April 23, 1966, she married Gary L. Lawrence in Orrville, OH.

Esther dedicated 20 years as a secretary at Calvary Assembly of God before transitioning to Steiner Turf, where she served as a credit manager until her retirement. She was a member of Calvary Assembly of God in Orrville and later Evangel Assembly of God in Wooster.

Esther’s zest for life was evident in her love for Jesus, reading and travel. She and Gary explored numerous destinations, including trips to Florida, Hilton Head, and Myrtle Beach. Their most cherished adventure was a 7,000-mile journey through the Canadian Rockies and Montana. Above all, Esther treasured moments spent with her family and friends, including her Baltimore, MD “family”.

Esther is survived by her beloved husband, Gary Lawrence; daughter, Christy L. (David) Forrer; siblings, Carl Bender, Loretta Kitzmiller, and Loyal (Becky) Yoder; numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews, as well as “chosen children” Sharon, Kim and Stephanie (Pudge).

She was preceded in death by her parents, Elmer J. and Sarah Yoder, and sister, Shirley Kitzmiller Lehman.

Friends may call on August 10, 2024, at Skylar Brook Farm, 12853 Bair Road, Orrville, OH, from 3:00 pm to 3:45 pm. A Celebration of Esther’s Life will follow at 4:00 pm at Skylar Brook Farm.

Memorial contributions may be made to Ohio’s Hospice LifeCare, 1900 Akron Road, Wooster, OH 44691 or online at www.lifecarehospice.org/give.

Arrangements are entrusted to Auble Funeral Home in Orrville. Online registry and expressions of condolence may be made at www.aublefuneralhome.com.