Esther L. Dykema

Esther L. Dykema, 87, went to be with the Lord on Sunday afternoon, December 22. Though ill, Esther enjoyed the warmth and excellent care she received at Farrington House Assisted Living, where she resided for the last four years of her life.

She was born in Muskegon, Michigan to Arthur and Cecelia Jensen on October 20, 1926. She is survived by an older brother, Vernon Jensen, two younger sisters, Mary Bradford and Marsha Herr, daughters, Beth Farmer and Helene Kahl, seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Her husband, Leonard, son, Leonard Paul, and grandson, Jason, preceded her in death.

Esther spent her life in various music ministries. She taught music at Southland Bible Institute in Pikeville, KY, before marrying Leonard in 1951. After marriage, they lived in Matewan, WV, where Esther taught piano and played for singers at the Christian radio station where Leonard was employed. In 1959, the family moved to Merritt Island, where Esther served as church organist/pianist for First Baptist Church of Merritt Island from 1961 to 1981. She continued to be actively involved in the handbell program and Living Christmas Tree performances for many years. She served as organist for Temple Israel for 20 years, and later as organist for First Baptist Church of Cocoa.

Esther had a deep sense of commitment to the Lord, and endeavored to live her life according to scripture.

Calling hours are 5-8PM Monday, December 30, 2013 at Wylie-Baxley Funeral Home, Merritt Island. A funeral service will be held 10AM Tuesday, December 31, 2013 at First Baptist Church of Cocoa. Interment will be at Florida National Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Music Department of First Baptist Church of Cocoa.

Proverbs 3:5-6

Trust in the Lord with all thine heart and lean not unto thine own understanding; in all thine ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.