Esther O’Neill Porter, 99, of East Jordan, Michigan, died Wednesday, June 21, 2017, at Grandvue Medical Care Facility in East Jordan, surrounded by her family.

  Esther was born in Phelps, Marion Township, Charlevoix County, Michigan, on May 31, 1918, the daughter of Richard and Effie (Walker) O’Neill.  She graduated from Charlevoix High School in 1935.  She then attended the Teachers College in Ypsilanti, now known as Eastern Michigan University.  On June 24, 1939, in Charlevoix, she married William A. Porter.  He preceded her in death on August 11, 2001.

  She was a charter member and served as president in 1965 and 1966 of the East Jordan Garden Club and charter member of the East Jordan Bridge Club.  At the time of her death, she was the oldest living member and deacon of the First Presbyterian Church in East Jordan as well a member of the Ladies Aid.  She was a member of East Jordan Study Club and the East Jordan Birthday Club. Esther was a Paul Harris Fellow of East Jordan Rotary Club.

  Esther’s greatest joy was helping other.  She had a special way of making all those she met feel very special. Quietly and without fanfare, she provided her time and resources to community members.  She also enjoyed playing bridge, knitting, counted cross-stitching, reading, walking, swimming and bird watching.  Esther was a lover of nature.  She also loved music and enjoyed playing the piano and keyboard.

  Esther is survived by four daughters, Patricia Bloom of East Jordan, Mary (Dennis) Jason of East Jordan, Ruth (Carl) Gee of Boyne City and Jane (Steve) Duperon of Gill’s Pier; ten grandchildren; seven great grandchildren; and one great great grandson.  She was also preceded in death by her parents, one granddaughter, Lisa J. Bloom, one brother, William O’Neill, one sister-in-law, Miyo O’Neill and one son-in-law, Carl Bloom.

  Esther’s daughters want to express a huge “Thank You” to the entire staff of Grandvue Medical Care Facility for the wonderful loving care our mother received while in your care.

  A memorial service will be held on Thursday, June 29, 2017 at 2:00 P.M. at the First Presbyterian Church, East Jordan.  Rev. Lois Aroian will officiate.  Interment will be in Sunset Hill Cemetery, East Jordan, MI.

  The family will receive friends on Thursday from 12:30 P.M. until service time at church.  Memorials may be given to the Bill A. Porter/Esther M. Porter Fund that supports East Jordan Public Schools, c/o Charlevoix County Community Foundation, East Jordan First Presbyterian Church or Grandvue Medical Care Facility in East Jordan.

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