Esther Leatherman Holshouser

Esther Leatherman Holshouser, 72, of Salem, departed this life on Wednesday, August 21, 2013 after a courageous battle with Lymphoma. She was a loving and devoted wife, mother, and grandmother and left a legacy of courage, loyalty and faith. She was born on November 18, 1940 in Frederick County, MD, the last of seven children born to the late Edgar and Edna Brandenburg Leatherman. Preceding Esther in death were two sisters, Mrs. Ruth Palmer and Mrs. Jane Delauter; and one brother, Clarence Leatherman. She is survived by her best friend and husband of 53 years, Bobby; two children, Mitch Holshouser and wife Carrie of Chesterfield, VA, and Kevin Holshouser and wife Angie of Salem, VA. Also left to cherish her memory are six precious grandchildren: Cameron, Miranda and Savannah Holshouser, and Connor, Samantha and Jack King. Also surviving are two sisters, Joyce Harshman and Marilyn Gaver of Myersville, MD; and one brother, William Leatherman of Wolfsville, MD; nineteen beloved nieces and nephews; and special family friends, Marion and Sharon Leatherman. Esther was a faithful member of Green Hill Church of the Brethren for over 44 years, where she served as Sunday School teacher, member of the Mamie Kinzie Circle, and sang in the choir. She grew up in Myersville, MD, moving to Roanoke in 1960 when she married Bobby and made this their home. She was employed at the VA Medical Center in Salem, where she retired after 34 years of service. Those who honor her gentle spirit will remember she was happiest when she was spending time with her family, stitching a new quilt, or tending to her many flower beds. The family would like to express their sincere appreciation for the many acts of kindness shown them during Esthers illness. The family will receive friends on Friday, August 23, 2013 from 6 until 8 p.m. at the John M. Oakey & Son funeral home in Salem. A celebration of Esthers life will be conducted on Saturday, August 24, 2013 at 11 a.m. at Green Hill Church of the Brethren in Salem with Rev. Shawn Tanner officiating. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in her memory to Green Hill Church of the Brethren, 2699 Harborwood Rd., Salem, VA 24153. An online guestbook is available by visiting www.johnmoakey.com.