Esther Victoria Simmons Shelton Coffman Gearhart, 98, passed away peacefully January 15, 2017 at Commonwealth Senior Living in Hampton. She was born November 10, 1918 in Mt. Airy, N.C. to Wilcher & Mattie Lou Simmons.
Esther was preceded in rest by her parents; husbands, Leo Shelton, James Coffman and John Gearhart; son-in-law, Robert Prokopik; great-grandson, Anthony Madden; eight brothers; and three sisters. She is survived by four daughters, Jackie Shaffer (Don), Ann Prokopik, Elaine Bartnikowski (Ron), Susan Keeler (Doug); son, John Shelton; fourteen grandchildren, Vickie, Mitch, Luann, Teri, Robyn, Bobbi, Mike, Michael, Alan, Steve, Doni, Tobi, Rush, Becky; twenty-four great-grandchildren; and eight great-great-grandchildren.
Esther was a Lady of Class, Grace, and Dignity.
The family would like to thank everyone at Commonwealth for their devoted love and care they gave our mother and family.
A private ceremony will be held at St. John's Episcopal Church Cemetery in Hampton.
Arrangements are under the care of Parklawn-Wood Funeral Home, 2551 N. Armistead Ave., Hampton, VA 23666.
