Esther Mcentire

Esther Maxine McEntire, 95, Topeka, passed away on February 19, 2008. She was born on January 14, 1913 in Oswego, Kansas, the daughter of Henry and Mary (Miller) Sharp, and the sister of Gladys and Merle Sharp, and Sybil Poirier, all of whom are deceased.

She was a graduate of Oswego High School, Pittsburg State Teachers College, and earned graduate degrees from Emporia State University and Kansas University. She was a math teacher and counselor for USD 501, teaching at Capper, French, and Jardine Junior High Schools, and Topeka High and Topeka West High Schools. She retired in 1978 after 19 years of teaching. Esther was a member of the D.A.R., Colonial Dames, Knife and Fork Club, Retired Teachers, and was a life-long church member and attended First UMC, and later Susannah Wesley UMC. She was an artist and received several awards from Art of the Ages. She was an avid bridge player. Esther was a musician, playing violin in college, and later as a member of an organ club. She enjoyed being a member of the Aldersgate Village Chime Choir. Her hobbies included weaving, needlepoint, and years of geneology research.

Esther married Alfred Basye and later divorced. She married Richard McEntire in 1945. He preceded her in death in 1958. Esther had two children: Linda (Robert) Taylor, Auburn; Jim (Joann) McEntire, Lawrence; five grandchildren: Jeff and Julie Taylor, Greg and Kim Taylor, Jennifer and Mike Smiley, and Emily and Lizzy McEntire; and five great-grandchildren: Kaley and Camille Taylor, Marley Smiley, and Christopher and Megan Taylor.

Visitation will be at 2 pm Friday, Feb. 22nd at Penwell-Gabel Southwest Chapel, followed immediately by a Memorial service at 3 pm. Inurnment will be at Mount Hope Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be given to Midland Hospice or the Aldersgate Village Good Samaritan Fund. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.PenwellGabel.com.