Esta Marie Jefferson

Esta Marie Griffin Jefferson was born to Kermit Griffin, Sr., and Anna Mae Washington on January 2, 1945. She was preceded in death by her parents, siblings, Robert Griffin, Kermit Griffin Jr., Betty Walker, William H. Griffin, Vivian Griffin, and husband, William P. Jefferson. She graduated from Booker T. Washington High School in Marlin, TX in 1964, later earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Mathematics/Biology from Bishop College in 1968, and Master’s Degree in Economics/Math from North Texas State University in 1981. Her entire life and work were spent in an unyielding commitment to public service. Esta was driven to ensure that her daughter knew and loved mathematics as much as she did. She spent her entire teaching career in Dallas ISD teaching and loving secondary mathematics, ending at David W. Carter High School, and retiring in 1998. Her community activities included being an active BTW Class of ’64 Alumna, HOA member, and having a winning yard in her neighborhood.

Esta’s most memorable moments were becoming a Christian, giving birth to her only daughter, spoiling her two grandchildren, and traveling to Hawaii. She sponsored many activities at Carter High School. She joined Concord Missionary Baptist Church in 1979 and was a devout member. She was nominated Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers and Teacher of the Year in the same building. She enjoyed gardening, horticulture, cooking large meals for family gatherings, home engineering, playing games, sewing, walking, and working on the computer.

All who knew Esta speak of her loving disposition and love of her family. She responded to each task with a sense of pride, dedication, and commitment toward excellence.

She leaves to mourn and cherish her memories a loving daughter, Mrs. Monique (Demetrius) Flanagan of Red Oak, TX; a loving granddaughter, Antoinette King of Fort Worth, TX; a loving grandson, Eric King, Jr. of Cedar Hill, TX; three sisters Maudie Harvey of Dallas, TX, Georgia Wheeler of Talladega, AL, and Emily Kelly of Marlin, TX; and a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends.