Esther Lee Jessel, a beloved resident of Lake Jackson in Manassas, VA, departed this world on April 15, 2024, peacefully in her sleep in her tranquil home on the lake. Esther lived a life defined by her kindness, unwavering compassion, and gentle spirit.

Esther was born on September 29, 1926, in Charlotte County, VA, to her parents, Harry Lipscomb (WW1 Veteran) and Mary Trent. She grew up in Charlotte County, VA, surrounded by the love of her family and community. Esther was the cherished sister of Euell Lipscomb, Raye Hatton, Connie DeWitt, Cecil Lipscomb, Janice Dixon, and Joyce Manfield. Together, they shared many fond memories and formed strong bonds that would last a lifetime.

In 1945, Esther graduated from Randolph Henry High School in Virginia. Upon graduation, Esther started working for Dr. Whaley in Victoria, VA where she met her first husband, Ellis K. Vaughan. Esther and Ellis married in 1946 and started a family with the birth of two sons Ellis (Ken) Vaughan Jr. and Stephan A. Vaughan. The family moved to Manassas, VA in 1961. Esther and Ellis parted ways and she went on to meet her late husband, Franklin (Frank) J. Jessel, in 1968.

Esther and Frank, shared many beautiful years on the serene shores of Lake Jackson. Together, they built a home filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. They shared a love of travel and adventure, exploring the Americas, Europe, Southeast Asia,the exotic islands of the Pacific, Australia, and New Zealand.  Frank's passing in 2002 left a void in Esther's heart, but her resilient spirit and enduring love for him sustained her through the remainder of her lifetime.

Esther had a deep passion for nature, particularly her love for birds. She found solace and joy in observing the winged creatures that graced her backyard, but none captured her heart quite like the cardinal. The vibrant red plumage and melodious song of the cardinal brought Esther immense happiness, and she delighted in their presence throughout the changing seasons.

From 1967 to 2014, Esther served as a dedicated clerical employee at the Prince William County Courthouse, where her compassionate nature and genuine desire to help others had her adored by colleagues and community members alike.

Esther was a pillar of strength and support for her community. She possessed an innate ability to brighten the lives of those around her with simple acts of kindness, words of encouragement, or her warm smile. Whether lending a listening ear or offering a comforting embrace, Esther had a profound impact on all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Esther's life was richly blessed with the joy of family. She lived to see five generations of her family's lives grow and prosper, a testament to the love and legacy she imparted. Her legacy will be carried on by her surviving family members, and all who had the joy of knowing her.

She is survived by her two sons, Ellis (Ken) Vaughan Jr. and Stephen A. Vaughan; her grandchildren, Ellis "Kenny" Vaughan, III (Rhonda), Shelia Renee Vaughan-Fogg (Derrick), Carrie Wood (Matt), Samuel Vaughan,  and Amanda McEwen (Chris); her great grandchildren; Kyle, Justin, Meredith, Cody, Morgan, Dylan, Landon, Aaron, and Andrew, and her great great grandchildren; Mila, Holly, Bristol, Bodie, Nora, Kingsley, and Willow, and her two sisters Raye and Joyce (Carl).

A memorial service to celebrate Esther's life will be held at Grace Methodist Church in Manassas, VA on 23 April, 2024. There will be a follow-on burial service at the Roanoke Presbyterian Church in Brookneal, VA on 27 April, 2024.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Shiners Children's Hospital, an organization that held a special place in Esther and her late husband, Frank's heart.

Esther Lee Jessel will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her, but her spirit will live on. May she find eternal heavenly peace and comfort in the arms of her beloved husband, Frank, and may we think of dear Esther every time we see a beautiful, vibrant Cardinal.