Essie L. Dillard

Essie was born in November 1925 in Columbus (Hempstead County), Arkansas – a small farming community 15 miles west-northwest of Hope, Arkansas. She was affectionately known to her six generations of nieces and nephews as ”Aunt Nee” and to her church community as “Mother Dillard.”

Essie moved to Wichita in the early 1950s and joined Holy Temple COGIC under the leadership of the late Bishop Graze Kinnard. She was actively involved with her church as a member of the choir, a member of the hospitality ministry, and a powerful prayer warrior. Essie was devoted to the same church until the Lord called her home.

Essie worked for years at Innes Department Store restaurant in downtown Wichita where she first created her renowned cucumber salad dressing. She retired from Innes at its closing.

Essie was a talented hairdresser, but her passion was spending time in the kitchen. She took great pride in trying new recipes and sharing the recipes and goodies with all who appreciated her deeds, especially her nieces and nephews.

Essie had a God-given gift as a nurturer. She took care of many sick and shut-in and was there for anyone that needed to be nursed back to health. She welcomed people into her home and occasionally moved into the homes of others to provide aid and allow family members to work and attend church without worrying about their loved ones. The family knew that as long as Essie was present, their loved ones were in good and capable hands.

Being born in the deep south in the early 1900s allowed Essie to witness and experience many things during that era. She lived through the election of 16 presidents from Calvin Coolidge to Joseph Biden. But she never thought she would live to witness the first African-American to be sworn in as President of this country, which has a deep-rooted history of racism and inequality. And then, later, a woman to be sworn in as Vice President. Two big highlights of her years. She was so proud!

Essie is survived by her brother, Reverend George Custard, Jr., of Wichita KS, and Sister-in-law Pearlie Burchette of Blue Springs, MO, and a host of cousins, nieces, and nephews to cherish her memory. She was preceded in death by her mother, Lula Dee Walker, father, George Custer, and five siblings – Sudie Lee Scoggins, Bessie Lee Scoggins, Charles Willie Burchette, Clemmie Lee Custer, and Corean Canidy.