Great aunt
Esther Jenner passed away on April 20, 2023 at nearly 97. In my limited
relationship with her I can honestly say she was amazing. The first time we
talked she said, “I know we’ve never met, but I love you very much.” A
powerful thing to hear for an adopted kid whose biological family found him at
50-ish.
Esther asked questions. Not everyone does. She had looked me up and asked a host
of very sincere questions about specific parts of my life. It was flattering.
She was a force to be taken seriously; simultaneously tender and super direct.
Sharper than a 20-year-old in her 90s (that is not hyperbole) and quick on her
feet.
I found out more about my biological mother from Esther than everyone else
combined. She would remember things big and small at different times over the
years. Information tucked into corners of conversations.
Only Esther could have filled in those blanks, both entertaining and
dark. She was in the room with Diana and the doctor who delivered me (a family
friend of the Jenners who also delivered Pam and Caitlyn,
2 photos above) when the
big decisions were made. I suspect Esther had a big impact on those decisions.
It appears that was typical for her. She left big impressions everywhere she
went.
Esther (
Below, right) left behind an empire but, more importantly, a sea of love and
affection.
I am re-posting photos from online sources. Caitlyn posted a couple of these
on social media.
