Esther L. Ashby

Esther L. Ashby       Age 97, a lifelong resident of Northville, passed away peacefully at her home on September 24, 2016 with her youngest son, Brent, and her youngest granddaughter, Katie, at her side.  She was born January 28, 1919 in Poyner Township, Iowa; daughter of Edward Burdette and Zelma Elizabeth (nee Simmons) Turner. Esther grew up on the family farm that has been in the family for close to 150 years and had 8 years of country schooling. She only expected to move to Northville from Iowa for 6 months, but stayed for 72 years.       Esther was a young farm girl and then devoted herself to raising her family. She was an amazing cook who started cooking at age 10 for the family and enjoyed baking; desserts were her specialty. Since she was a child she loved the Detroit Tigers, playing cards, reading, bowling, doing crossword puzzles, and spending time with her family. She was very dedicated to her Christian faith and was a member of the Plymouth Church of the Nazarene. She gave to many charities and was a proud life member of the NRA. Esther was a loving and caring mother and grandmother; she always had a smile on her face.       She is survived by her children, JuneAnn (Conrad) Doan, Blaine (Faith) Ashby, Dale (Gloria) Ashby, Vicki Ashby, and Brent (Cindi) Ashby; her grandchildren, Darlene, Deanna, Bret, Aleesha, Tod, Tifany, Jason, Casey, Rachel, Lucas, Benjamin, Brian, Bradley, and Katie; 21 great grandchildren; and 4 great-great grandchildren. Esther was preceded in death by her parents and her younger brother Victor Turner, who was killed while serving in the US Army during WWII.       Private services have been held. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions would be appreciated to The St. Joseph's Indian School, P.O. Box 326, Chamberlain, SD  57326; a charity very dear to her heart.