Esther Evans Whitley's Obituary
Esther Evans Whitley, 88, of Tampa, joined her beloved husband in Heaven on Sunday, January 18, 2026. She was the most devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister and friend. While most people try to be everything to everyone, she succeeded.
Esther was born in Columbus, GA to Thomas and Ida Evans. She was one of 5 children. She was a very calm, kind, and generous lady. Always putting her family and friends before herself. She met Ron (the love of her life) when she was only 16 years old. They married and raised 4 children together throughout their 68-year love story. They traveled the world together; Esther especially enjoyed Alaska and Australia. She was always ready for an adventure, as long as they were together.
Esther dedicated herself to her faith, her work, and most importantly, her family. She made everywhere her beloved husband’s career took them "home". Because of her devotion to them, and remarkable ability to adapt to any climate or condition, she always created the same feeling of a cozy, loving home. Her kitchen was always bursting with delicious food. Her maternal instinct applied to everyone she knew. She wanted to feed everyone who came to her home, both body and spirit. She had a warm hug, prayers, and good advice to whomever needed it. Esther also had a wonderful sense of humor and was very happy to make others smile or laugh.
Esther always wanted to learn more about the world, which led to her passion for reading. That love led to a very successful career as a librarian, in which Esther earned her master’s degree. She was a rich source of information, from history to cooking to a truly classic novel she could explain in a way that made people want to listen. She was a remarkable storyteller.
Esther was preceded in death by her cherished husband, Ron; a daughter, Susan DePatie; her parents, and 3 siblings.
She is survived by 3 children; Stephanie Whitley Powell (Clifford), Lori Cassady, and Jeff Whitley; 5 grandchildren, Ethan (Michelle) Powell, Garrett Powell, Meredith (Ben) Trull, Caitlin (Robert) DeSantis, and Evan Kyle Cassady (Kelsey Stirling); great-grandchildren, Lincoln Powell, Stevie Powell, Esther Trull, Ezra Trull, Naomi Trull, and Jimmie Olivia DeSantis.
There will be a gathering of family and friends on Saturday, January 24, 2026, 1pm, at Tampa Bay Presbyterian Church, 19911 Bruce B Downs Blvd, Tampa, 33647. The family will receive guests beginning at 12pm. Entombment will follow the service at Sunset Memory Gardens.
In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations in Esther’s honor be made to:
Feeding Tampa Bay.
https://donate.feedingtampabay.org
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