Mrs. Esther Dale Thompson was born on September 8, 1937, in Eufaula, Alabama, to the late Minnie Kelley-Dale and Edmond Dale, Sr. She was raised in a large, loving family as one of thirteen children—eight boys and five girls. Her siblings included Edmond Jr., Charlie, Jesse, Richard (Fannie), Earlier, James (Marion), Eddie, John Lee, Mittie, Rosie, Dora, and Minnie. Esther attended Spring Hill Elementary School and Comer High School in Alabama before relocating to Tampa, Florida, in 1955, where she continued her education. Demonstrating her lifelong commitment to learning, she earned her high school diploma from Franklin Adult High School, graduating proudly with the Class of 1979. On June 24, 1957, Esther married the love of her life, Willie Thompson. Together, they built a beautiful legacy of love, faith, and family, sharing 69 years of marriage. Their union was blessed with nine children. 

She was preceded in death by her parents and all of her siblings. They were preceded in death by two children at birth and their beloved daughter, Sylvia, who departed this life on February 15, 2007. 

She leaves to cherish her memory her six loving children: Yvonne, Shirley (Ben), Brenda (Donald), Willie Jr. (Yolanda), Stephanie, and Dulcey (Douglas). Esther was a dedicated and hardworking woman who devoted nine years to Hillsborough County Public Schools, serving as a Head Cook. She later began a career with Honeywell/Intercon, where she faithfully worked for ten years before retiring. A woman of unwavering faith, Esther devoted her life to serving the Lord and her church family. For more than 30 years, she faithfully taught Sunday School and Vacation Bible School, sang joyfully in Choir No. 1, and served diligently on the Usher Board No. 1. Her quiet strength, compassionate spirit, and steadfast commitment to God were evident in every aspect of her life and inspired all who knew her. Above all, Esther treasured her family. She was the proud matriarch of 21 grandchildren, 56 great-grandchildren, 10 great-great-grandchildren, and 4 step-grandchildren, along with a host of cherished nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, extended family, and dear friends. One of her greatest blessings was living to witness four generations of her family, a legacy she held close to her heart. Mrs. Esther Dale Thompson's life was a testament to faith, perseverance, love, and selfless service. Her kindness, wisdom, and enduring devotion to her family and her Savior will forever remain in the hearts of all who were blessed to know and love her. Though she will be deeply missed, her legacy will continue to flourish through the generations she nurtured with unconditional love.