Elizabeth Hunter Esmiol

Elizabeth Hunter Esmiol, known to everyone as Beth, died at age ninety-one on September 11, 2016; a fittingly somber day for a military daughter and patriotic navy wife to pass away.  Beth endured a six-week battle with pancreatic cancer. Typical of Beth’s stoic essence, she handled the sickness with grace and heroism.  Beth will be deeply missed.

Beth was born on August 14, 1925 at Walter Reed General Hospital, in Washington D.C. to Col. Floyd W. Hunter, MD and Edith Vivian Hunter. An Army brat, Beth traveled to all fifty states and lived in many. At sixteen, she met Morris A. Esmiol, Jr. (Morry), fell in love with the Naval Academy Cadet, and married shortly after WWII. During the War, Beth attended Colorado College and the University of Texas and was a proud Kappa Kappa Gamma.  

Beth was the consummate naval wife. She orchestrated twenty-eight moves throughout the country, was a lifetime volunteer for Red Cross, and was awarded Navy Wife of the Year. Most importantly, throughout Morry’s career as a Navy pilot, Beth raised two children and provided her family with the strength necessary to endure his frequent absences and perilous service. Beth and Morry retired in Colorado and enjoyed its mountains and beauty for forty years. Five years ago, they moved to Bothell, Washington to be close to family.

Beth was graced with a sharp mind and competitive spirit. Sports were her forte, especially tennis and golf, and she was often the tournament champion. When not playing, she loved watching sports, particularly the Broncos, Seahawks, Rockies, and Mariners. Beth loved being with people, playing bridge, telling jokes, and sharing her Scottish gift of gab.

Beth is survived by her beloved husband of seventy years, Morry, son, Morris A. Esmiol III (Martha F. Esmiol), daughter, Carol E. Youssef (Nazih Youssef), nine grandchildren, and twenty-four great grandchildren.  She is preceded in death by her brother, William Floyd Hunter, and granddaughter, Kirsten Esmiol. Beth’s strong character enriched and influenced the lives of her beloved family.