Esther Bernice Moton

Esther Bernice Moton, affectionately known as “Queen Esther,” departed this life on December 3, 2022, and is now in the presence of her heavenly Father and Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Esther was born in Galveston, Texas, to the union of John D. Pellum and Beatrice Scales Pellum. She was the fourth child of eight children. Esther was very bright, intelligent, artistic, and a creator. She discovered a mud-type of dirt on her property and began to mold different figures such as Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr, and a man fishing in a boat. Her artistic abilities were also demonstrated in her many drawings. Esther was an avid fisherwoman. She and her sister, Marie Elmore, would fish during the week and have a fish fry on Friday. It was another time for family and friends to get together.

Esther was well known in the community in her role as co-owner of John Moton Real Estate Office, along with her then husband, John Moton. She was a savvy real estate broker and eventually became president of the Real Estate Brokers’ Association. Esther was a huge proponent of education and always encouraged her children and grandchildren to follow their dreams.

Esther was also known for her unselfish acts of kindness. She sacrificially gave so much to family members in need, never expecting anything in return. Her house was always the “home away from home” and family members knew they were always welcomed.

Esther was a joyful person and always had a melody in her heart. She had a lovely soprano voice and one of her favorite songs to sing was, “I Sing Because I’m Happy” (His Eye Is One the Sparrow). If you had the opportunity to meet with Sis. Moton, you know she always made you smile!

As a child of the most high God, Esther was a devoted member of Zion United House of Prayer, serving as a missionary. She attended services in the morning, evenings, and during special occasions. She loved the Lord and passionately expressed her love and adoration during services and at home.

Queen Esther peacefully, lovingly and unexpectedly was called home to be with her Lord early Saturday morning on December 3rd, 2022. She was proceeded in death by her parents; her siblings, John Charles Pellum, Helen Rose Bradford (Cornelius), Terry Shaw, Genice Marie Elmore, John Davis Pellum, Joe Lewis Pellum; her granddaughter Monica Linear. She is survived by her brother, Gregory Paul Pellum; her daughters, Joy Moton, JoAnn Moton, Shirley Lacy; her son, Johnny Moton III; her grandchildren, Pennee Nickles, Treasure Nickles, Justin Lacy, Jason Lacy; her great-grandchildren, Chianti Jones, Shawn Jones Jr., Gabriel Chance, Pennie Robinson, Thecla Prescott, Sky Dumas, Madison Hoston, Nehemiah McGrew; great-great grandchild Prince Jones; and a host of nieces, nephews, family and friends. Esther will be greatly missed, but never forgotten.

All are welcome to sign the online guestbook below and add any messages or stories for the Moton family.