Esther M. Jackson, born on October 7, 1928, in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully on Sunday, December 14, 2025, in Rock Hill, South Carolina.
Esther’s education began at East Lampeter High School, followed by an associate’s degree at Lancaster Business College. She deepened her musical expertise by studying pipe organ and various religious services with Professor Elmer D. Scheid in Lancaster.
During her work life, Esther served as a secretary to the Superintendent of Schools in the Conestoga Valley School District, and later contributing her talents as a radio operator for Servamation Company. Her commitment to education continued as she worked as a secretary in the Cornwall-Lebanon School District. Esther was also a gifted organist for 17 years at Salem United Church of Christ, where she played for the premier performance of Sydney H. C. Peters’ cantata, “The Atonement.” Additionally, she served as a substitute organist at various churches, including Christ United Church of Christ in Annville, and St. John’s and St. James United Churches of Christ in Lebanon.
As a devoted community member, Esther held leadership roles in numerous organizations. She was the former secretary of the Salvation Army Advisory Board and participated in Operation Santa for 12 years. As an active member of the Chautauqua Board of Managers, she served as both Secretary and Corresponding Secretary. Esther was a charter secretary of the Mount Gretna Art Show and a member of the Mount Gretna Historical Society. She was also the charter president of the Lebanon County Council of Republican Women and served as a Republican Committeeperson in both East Lampeter Township and Mount Gretna Borough.
Esther was a life member of the Lebanon County Association of School Retirees and volunteered with the Good Samaritan Hospital Auxiliary and as a caregiver with Good Samaritan Hospice for five years. Her commitment to community service also extended to her involvement in the American Association of Retired Persons and the Friendship Fire Company.
Esther is survived by her daughter, Beth Renee, wife of William K. Lifsey, III; her grandchildren, David M. Lifsey, Claire R. Lifsey, and Kevin W. Lifsey; and her great-grandchildren, Layla, Ethan, Evan, and Maleah.
She is preceded in death by her parents, John Weaver Miller and Elizabeth Crossley Miller; her husband, George W. Jackson, and her brother, Ivan C. Miller.