IN LOVING MEMORY

A CELEBRATION OF LIFE

It is with heavy hearts and deep gratitude for a life well lived that we announce the passing of our beloved Esther Jimenez, who gained her wings on July 19, 2025, at the age of 78. Surrounded by family and loved ones, Esther departed this world, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, wisdom, and joy that will continue to inspire all who knew her. She is survived by her husband of 58 years, Valentine Jimenez, Sr. She also leaves behind her sons, Antonio (Mary Lou), Henry (Carmen), Valentine, Jr. (Maggie), Benito, 16 grandchildren, 34 great-grandchildren; siblings: Roy Charles, Dora De la Garza, and Elida Aldaco. She had various nieces and nephews that will miss her greatly. Esther is preceded in death by parents, Bentura and Otila Alaniz Charles; her daughter, Otila Marie Jimenez; and siblings, Alfred Charles, David Charles, Larry Charles, Irene Saenz, Petra Villa, Natalia Charles, Cookie Charles and Flora Charles. (may they rest in peace and welcome our beloved, Esther Jimenez)

LIFE AND FAMILY

Esther was born to Bentura and Otila Charles on May 1, 1947, in San Antonio, Texas. Growing up, family was always at the center of Esther's world. She shared a special closeness with her siblings. Her parents and siblings created a home filled with laughter and support. Her parents instilled in Esther a sense of responsibility and care for others.

A LIFE OF PURPOSE AND PASSION

Throughout her adult married life, Esther dedicated herself to both her work and her family. She owned a successful bridal shop where she designed and made bridal and wedding party dresses. She found joy in making all who came to her bridal shop happy. She is remembered as a person of integrity, generosity, and unwavering commitment to her work. Even as she operated her bridal shop, her commitment to family never faltered. She often included her children to help her at her bridal shop. Esther and Valentine raised five children, first in Baytown, Texas, then here in San Antonio. She was a dedicated wife and mother. Her children have fond memories of growing up in their two homes.

PERSONAL INTEREST AND HOBBIES

Esther's interests were going fishing and cooking. Whenever the opportunity rose for an invitation to go fishing, she was ready with her fishing rod and gear. She enjoyed being at the beach both in her young married life and her older life. She would take in the beauty or the sun, sand and water. She also loved to garden, again enjoying the outdoors as she tended to a vegetable garden. Cooking brought her joy, especially when her children and grandchildren would visit. She took pleasure in sharing home-cooked meals and treats with family and friends. Animals held a special place in Esther's heart. She had a dog, a cat, and a horse. Her compassion knew no bounds, extending to people and creatures alike.

LEGACY AND REMEMBERANCE

Those who knew Esther remember her as the embodiment of kindness, empathy, and warmth. She had a remarkable ability to listen and offer comfort and/or advice to those who came to her. Every family member and friend will carry forward Esther's memory and values. Her love and guidance shaped the lives of those closest to her. Esther's legacy will continue in every act of generosity, every moment of understanding, and every shared adventure.

A CELEBRATION OF LIFE

A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, with a private family viewing from 3-4pm, and public viewing from 4-8pm, with a prayer service at 6 pm at Ortiz Funeral Home, 3114 Culebra Road, San Antonio, TX 78228, where friends, family, and all whose lives were touched by Esther Jimenez are invited to gather in remembrance. On behalf of the Jimenez family, anyone attending the service may share a story or memory of Esther. Together we can find comfort in the love and memories our wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt and friend, leaves behind.

Rest in peace, Esther Jimenez. Your light will forever shine in the hearts of those who love you.

MESSAGES AND MEMORIES

Friends and family are invited to share messages, memories, and stories of Esther below. As we come together to honor her life, let us remember the moments that made her so special.