Mrs. Esther Leger Lane

Esther Lane, 86, of DeLand, Florida, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a lifetime of memories, love, strength, and lessons that will remain with her family and all those who had the privilege of knowing her.

Esther was a devoted Christian woman whose faith was an important part of who she was. She was a dedicated mother, a loving grandmother, a loyal friend, and a woman who believed in working hard, standing on her convictions, and always speaking her mind.

Esther was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Harvey Lane, and her daughter, Susan Covington. Though their absence brought an emptiness to her heart, the love she carried for them never faded.

As a mother, Esther gave her children something that cannot be measured—her strength, her guidance, and her unwavering love. She raised her family with a strong work ethic and a determination to do what she believed was right. She worked as a convenience store manager, a job that reflected many of the qualities that defined her: responsibility, perseverance, independence, and the ability to handle whatever came her way.

Esther was a no-nonsense lady. She was straightforward, to the point, and never afraid to speak her mind. You never had to wonder what Esther was thinking because she would tell you. She was strong-willed and firm in her beliefs, but behind that strength was a woman with a generous heart who cared deeply about the people around her.

She freely gave her time to friends, neighbors, and family. She enjoyed sharing time with those she loved, listening to a good story, telling a story of her own, and sharing a laugh. Her presence had a way of making an ordinary moment memorable.

Esther was also proud of her involvement with Eastern Star and the Shriners, organizations through which she built friendships, served others, and created memories that she treasured.

But perhaps Esther's greatest accomplishment was not found in a title, a job, or an organization. It was found in the people she loved and the family she helped build.

She is survived by her four children, Sandra Rockwell, Latrell Hawkins, Cindy Small, and Harry Covington Jr., along with numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren who will carry her memory and the lessons she taught them for generations to come.

For those who knew Esther, there will be an empty place now—a voice that will no longer be heard, a laugh that will no longer fill the room, and a presence that can never truly be replaced.

Her children will remember their mother.

Her grandchildren will remember their grandmother.

Her friends and neighbors will remember the woman who gave freely of herself.

And all who knew her will remember a strong, determined, straightforward woman who lived life on her own terms, loved deeply, worked hard, stood firmly in her faith, and never hesitated to tell you exactly what was on her mind.

Mom, you will be missed more than words can ever express.

There are some people whose absence changes the feeling of a room. You were one of those people. Your voice, your stories, your laughter, your strength, and even your no-nonsense ways became part of the lives of everyone who loved you.

Although our hearts are heavy, we are grateful for the years we were blessed to have you with us. We will carry your memory forward, tell your stories, laugh at the memories you left us, and hold close the lessons you taught us.

Your journey on this earth is complete, but your legacy continues through your children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, family, friends, and everyone whose life you touched.

Rest peacefully, Mom. Your work here is done. Your family loves you, and your presence will be deeply missed.

Until we meet again.

Public Visitation will be held at Baldwin-Fairchild Oaklawn Chapel, 5000 COUNTY ROAD 46A, SANFORD, FL 32771, US, on September 18, 2026, from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm.

A Funeral Service will take place at Baldwin-Fairchild Oaklawn Chapel, 5000 COUNTY ROAD 46A, SANFORD, FL 32771, US, on September 18, 2026, from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm.

A Graveside Committal will follow at Oaklawn Cemetery, 5000 Co Rd 46A, Sanford, FL 32771, US, on September 18, 2026, from 3:00 pm to 3:30 pm.