Esther Mary Hanks

Esther Mary Hanks became our guardian angel on September 19, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. Born on October 30, 1931, in Ventura, in the historic neighborhood of Tortilla Flats, where she proudly served on the committee for years. Esther graduated from Holy Cross School and Ventura High School. She then worked as a bookkeeper at Woolworth Department Store -a prestigious role for women at the time -and would later meet a handsome man who would become the love of her life Willard Gene Hanks. They married and settled in Oxnard where they welcomed their son Robert.

Esther was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, cousin, aunt, and always a loyal friend. She loved visiting with her family and seeing her grandchildren, great grandchildren, and all the babies of her entire family. Esther’s heart was truly made of gold, always caring for those in need, especially during times of need, illness, or end of life. She extended her compassion not only to her family, but to the community through her involvement with organizations, including but not limited to, the American Legion Unit 339 where she eventually sat as president for a number of years. She took pride in supporting veterans by participating in the poppy program, handcrafting poppies from crepe paper, and decorating veterans’ graves with flags. She also assisted military families at CBC Base in Port Hueneme, ensuring they had what they needed for their babies and homes.

Affectionately known as Auntie Esther by many including friends and neighbors, she enjoyed having company and social gatherings. She loved hosting family reunions, and her legendary Easter Egg hunts were a highlight where you would hear her stories of growing up in Tortilla Flats and her travels. Esther cherished traditions and encouraged her family to carry them on. Guests in her home were always welcomed with warmth and fed with love. From her biscuits and gravy to cornbread muffins, and deviled eggs, and of course her delicious desserts -whether it was a slice of cake or cupcakes- she ensured no one left her home with an empty stomach. Her stash of treats, from Reese’s peanut butter cups to ice cream, and baked goods her niece Lori would make, or donuts her nephew Mando would bring, was always ready for the kids and those with a sweet tooth. She always made sure everyone left with their stomachs and hearts full.

Esther is preceded in death by her husband Gene; her parents: Antonia and Victor; brother Rudy Gonzales; sisters: Vera Gutierrez, Juanita Melendez, Lupe Gonzalez; and nephews Edmund Melendez, Alan Gonzalez; and best friend Betty Ellis. She is survived by her son Robert Hanks (Celia), grandchildren: Michael Hanks (Kami), Sarah Mendonza (Rex), Amy Hutchinson (Jimmy); 4 great granddaughters Olivia and Charlotte Mendoza and Avery and Landry Hutchinson; as well as her sister Lucy Ontiveros and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Her legacy will live on in the people that loved her, and she will be missed greatly, and we are all glad to have ever known her.

Viewing services will be held on October 14, 2024 1pm-7pm. Rosary will be held at Saint Anthony’s in South Oxnard at 10am-11am. Funeral Mass at 1pm then burial at Ivy Lawn to follow.