Esther E. Fobes

Esther Eliza (Hall) Fobes, 107 formerly of Cortland, passed away at 5:50pm Tuesday January 20, 2009 at her daughter's residence. Esther was born the daughter of the late Carl S. and Emma (Jack) Hall on October 14, 1901 in Richmond, Ohio. Esther graduated from Andover High School in 1920 as valedictorian. Mrs. Fobes was a member of Cortland Christian Church for 72 years, serving as a Sunday school teacher and youth advisor. She was the first woman appointed as Elder and retired as Elder Emeritus. Esther was also a member of CWF and the Quilting Society. She started the penny fund at the church in 1980. She was an avid reader, mainly following the history of the 1st ladies. Esther was a staunch Republican and voted in the 1920 election, which was the 1st election that women were permitted to vote and has voted in every election since including 2008. Esther lived independently until she was 103, enjoying gardening, canning, baking, and sewing. Mrs. Fobes is survived by her daughter; Ruth Marie Parker of Howland Township; nine grandchildren, Larry, Susan, Frank, Karen, Jon, Timothy, Thomas, Linda, and Douglas; 20 great grandchildren; and five great great grandchildren. Besides her parents, Esther was preceded in death by her husband Clarence Lyman Fobes whom she married June 24, 1926 and who died August 28, 1959; sons Norman Hall Fobes, Clarence Clifton Fobes; and brothers Herbert, Neil, and Laurence Hall. Funeral services will be held at 12pm on Monday January 26, 2009 at Cortland Christian Church with Rev. Don Barnes and Rev. Ed Bartunek officiating. The family will receive friends at the church on Sunday from 4-7pm and then again on Monday from 11:30am until the time of the service. Burial will take place in Hayes Cemetery in Wayne Township. Material contributions may be made to the church memorial fund in Esther's memory. Family and friends may view this obituary online at www.shaferswinanschapel.com.