Esther Howard Wilson

Esther Howard Wilson, 76, of Chicago – formerly of Union Pier, MI, passed away on Monday July 1, 2013 at Rush University Hospital in Chicago. Arrangements have been entrusted with Sommerfeld Chapel of New Buffalo. Esther was born June 3, 1937 in Chicago to Jesse and Esther (Bush) Howard. She resided in several communities including Union Pier, MI, Michigan City, IN and Chicago, IL. Her church memberships included longtime member of Bethel AME Church in Michigan City, IN; she was a former Pastor of Mount Zion Church in Gary, IN (2006); and also a former Pastor of Hyde Park AME Church in Chicago, IL (2011). Esther loved shopping, shopping, and more shopping. She loved to help others; being with family and friends; traveling; and baking peach cobbler. Esther graduated from DuSable High School in Chicago, and at the age of 59, in 1996, she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Chicago State University. At the age of 65, in 2002, she graduated with a Master of Science Degree in Human Services Administration from Spertus College. Esther received her Certificate of Ordination from African Methodist Episcopal Church in 2001. Her working career covered over 55 years and included numerous employers and positions, all of which involved helping others. However, her most notable and proudest accomplishment was raising five boys (three sons and two nephews) to be productive citizens. Esther is survived by her husband William Wilson; sons, Jesse Wilson of Chicago, IL, William (Monica) Wilson of Spotsylvania, VA and Wesley (Melissa Chappell) Wilson of Chicago; grandchildren, Gabrielle, Moses and Sophia; nephews, Jesse ‘Skipper’ (Evelyn) Howard III of Chicago, IL and Jeffery Howard of Mitchelville, MD; and grand-nephews/nieces Donna, Patricia, Christina, Kayla and Malcolm. Esther is preceded in death by her parents-Jesse and Esther Howard, and a brother-Jesse Howard. A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Mon., July 8, 11:00 AM, at Bethel AME Church, 629 E. Michigan Blvd., Michigan City, IN. Visitation will precede the service from 10:00-11:00 AM at the church. Burial will follow at Pine Grove Cemetery, New Buffalo, MI. Friends wishing to leave a message of condolence for the family may do so at www.sommerfeldchapel.com