Esther Lee Pollard

Born on April 17, 1940, in Chicago, Illinois, Esther was the beloved daughter of Elijah Carter and Ella Mae Bonds. Raised with the strength and determination passed down through generations, Esther embodied resilience and grace throughout her life.

Esther's journey into motherhood began with her marriage to Derrick Whitehead, which gave her two daughters, Valerie and Vanessa. Later, she found the love of her life in Alvin Pollard, and together they created a beautiful blended family. Although Alvin's daughters, as well as her own, were already adults when they married, Esther embraced them as her own, proving that family is built on love, not just blood —a theme that carried through her many "adopted" children throughout her life. Their home became a place where all felt welcomed and cherished.

Esther dedicated her career to public service through her work with the Illinois Department of Employment Security. She became deeply passionate about being able to work "in an office," as her mother told her she always would, with one of her proudest professional accomplishments being that she served as an administrative assistant to eight attorneys—a testament to her diligence, intelligence, and unwavering work ethic.

But above all, Esther's greatest passion was her family. She became a grandmother when her daughter, Vanessa, welcomed Vatosha on March 17, 1974, marking the beginning of her most treasured role, as well as her favorite hobbies. She found immense joy and pride in being a mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother. Her life was centered around love, compassion, and nurturing those closest to her. She made it her mission to teach the values of kindness and thoughtfulness, and she ensured that her family understood the importance of cherishing memories and caring for one another.

Esther had a gentle spirit and found peace in the quiet moments—crocheting beautiful pieces for her loved ones, watching old movies, and offering heartfelt advice to anyone in need. Known for her kindness, trustworthiness, and generosity, Esther was always ready to lend a hand in whatever way she could.

She leaves behind her beloved daughter, Valerie J. Whitehead; her cherished step-daughters, Evonne, Dianne, and Cyle; her treasured grandchildren, Vatosha L. Ward, Brittney C. Previe, Carl Dixon II, Courtney Falkowski, and Jadon T. Jackson; her beloved great-grandchildren, Jerrika Palmer, JaNee’ Merritt, and Khylee Dial; and her precious great-great-grandson, Bryson Palmer. She also leaves behind her loving sisters, Rosa Mae Young-Bey, Rosa Marie Bennett, and Brenda Bonds Martin-Linton.

Esther is now reunited with her beloved husband, Alvin Pollard; her parents, Elijah Carter and Ella Mae Bonds; her daughter, Vanessa; her stepson, Brian; and her dear sister, Cora.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, July 19, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. at Ever Rest Funeral Home and Chapel, with a one-hour visitation beginning at 11:00 a.m. Pastor Jeremy Lenertz will officiate the memorial service.

Esther's life was a beautiful example of grace, strength, and love. She will be deeply missed, but her legacy of kindness and devotion to her family will live on in the hearts of those she touch.