Esther Amaya Cisneros

Reverend Esther Amaya Cisneros, 85, was born December 31, 1940, in Pflugerville, Texas, and entered heaven’s gates on August 1, 2026. She lived in Big Spring, Texas, and in 1953 her family moved to Earlimart, California, which remained her home and the place where she faithfully poured her life into family, church, and community.

Esther’s life was marked by steadfast faith, quiet strength, and a gracious spirit that made others feel welcomed and cared for. She carried herself with humility and sincerity, offering compassion in practical ways and extending kindness with a thoughtfulness that was felt, remembered, and deeply appreciated.

She was preceded in death by her parents, the late Reverend Juan Mata Amaya and Angela Garcia Amaya, and by 5 brothers and 3 sisters.

Esther is survived by 2 brothers and 2 sisters: Joe Amaya of Los Angeles; Juan Amaya Jr (Maria) of Visalia; Cruz Cardona (Joe) of Earlimart; and Angie Morfin (Paul) of Waxhaw NC. She is also survived by her sons and daughters: David Cisneros (Kelly) of Denver CO; Frank Cisneros Jr. (Martha) of Hughson, CA; Connie Suarez, (Benny) of Green Valley AZ; and Esther Contreras (Paul) of Fresno CA. She is also survived by 11 grandchildren, 23 great grandchildren, and 1 great, great grandchild.

Frank Cisneros and Esther Amaya were married on March 26, 1987 (39 years ago) in a Pentecostal Church in Earlimart, CA. In their marriage, Esther’s devotion was steady and patient, expressed through daily care and enduring loyalty—love given without hesitation and carried with remarkable grace.

A dedicated servant of God and a committed leader, Esther graduated from Delano High in 1961 in Delano, CA, and attended Bible Institution in La Puente, Los Angeles, CA in 1966. She served as a Sunday School teacher at Sendero de La Cruz Assemblies of God church in Earlimart, CA; was a Royal Ranger Lieutenant—helping Frank Cisneros together in Earlimart, CA; served as President of the Tulare Youth Section in Earlimart, CA; and served as District Youth Pastor in Earlimart, CA. She also worked in the School District in Earlimart, CA and opened a Community Children Center for after school in Earlimart, CA. She ultimately served as Senior Pastor of Sendero de La Cruz Assemblies of God Church in Earlimart, CA, living out her calling with unwavering conviction and a heart for others.

In the everyday moments, Esther brought warmth and joy. She loved to cook and bake, taking pride in preparing meals that gathered family together. She found peace in gardening, enjoyed going out to eat, and delighted in cheering for her beloved Dodgers and 49ers. Though she had a heartfelt fear of spiders and anything that crawled, she met life with courage and composure. Church was her happy place; she longed to be in God’s house whenever she was able to attend, and her gratitude for her parents and their godly example remained a guiding influence throughout her life.

Those who knew Esther remember a gentle presence and a generous heart—someone who made room for others, who prayed with confidence, and who loved with constancy. She held a special place in her heart for her nieces and nephews, and she was known for remembering birthdays and sending cards that made people feel seen and valued. She also carried a playful spark, reminding her family each year, “Don’t get my birthday mixed up with Christmas,” a cherished refrain that will continue to bring smiles.

Visitation will be held at Funeraria Del Angel Delano, 707 Browning Rd, Delano, CA 93215-9747, on August 11, 2026, from 9:00 am to 10:30 am. A Chapel Service will be held at Funeraria Del Angel Delano on August 11, 2026, from 9:30 am to 10:30 am. Interment will follow at North Kern Cemetery District, 627 Austin St, Delano, CA 93215, on August 11, 2026, from 11:00 am to 11:30 am.

Pallbearers will be John Amaya III, Matthew Amaya, James Amaya, Ricky Amaya, David Amaya, Joe Amaya Jr., Joshua Chavez, and Abel Barajas.

Esther’s life was a testimony of love, faith, and joy. She lived with a grateful heart, finding beauty in simple moments and strength in God’s promises. Though she will be deeply missed, her legacy remains—devotion lived faithfully, kindness extended freely, and a bright light carried forward in the hearts of all who loved her.