Esther J. Kerr, of Novi, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, entered eternal life late Wednesday evening, June 24, 2026, at Henry Ford Providence Hospital in Novi. She was 79 years old.

Esther was born February 10, 1947, in Detroit, to the late Merrill and Muriel (Price) Emery. She grew up on the northwest side of the city near Seven Mile and Evergreen, where her early years helped shape the strong, spirited, determined woman she would become. From a young age, Esther had a spark about her — full of energy, strong-willed, musical, and always ready for life's next adventure.

As a young woman, Esther met Bob Kerr through a youth group outing connected with Redford Baptist Church. The group had traveled north for a canoe trip near Manistee, and Esther, already showing the persistence and charm that would become part of her personality, managed to switch canoes so she could ride with the young man who had caught her attention. That trip began a love story that would carry them through decades of marriage, family, work, faith, and countless memories together.

Following his time in the Army, Esther and Bob were married in April of 1967. They honeymooned in Florida, traveling in his 1965 Plymouth Fury, and returned home to begin their married life in Detroit. Their first apartment was on Seven Mile Road, just east of Telegraph, and through hard work, careful saving, and determination, they later purchased their first home near Evergreen and Grand River. In 1976, they moved into the Novi home they had built together, a four-bedroom colonial that would become the center of family life for generations.

Esther worked throughout her life and was never afraid of a long day or a full schedule. She began her career at National Bank of Detroit and later worked for Sisters of Mercy Health Corporation, before it became Trinity Health, serving in an administrative role in the office of the president. She was known for her incredible speed and skill as a typist — so fast that even an IBM Selectric typewriter could hardly keep up with her. She also worked in banking before beginning a long career in real estate, serving clients in and around Novi for many years.

In addition to real estate, Esther became a familiar and beloved presence in the Novi schools. She worked for many years as a lunch lady at Orchard Hills Elementary School, first while her own sons were students and later while her grandsons were there. She also worked in the Novi Schools CARE program and loved being part of the school community. She treasured the opportunity to see and care for her grandsons each day, both at home as well as at school.

Family was the center of Esther's life. She was selfless, fiercely loyal, and entirely devoted to those she loved. Her husband, sons and grandsons were her world, and there was little she would not do for them. She wanted the best for her family and worked hard to provide, protect, encourage, and support them. She could be strong-willed, and at times wonderfully stubborn, but her intentions were always rooted in love. Those who knew her best understood that her determination came from a heart that wanted the whole world for the people she loved.

Music was also a meaningful part of Esther's life. She was a gifted vocalist and sang in church choirs, including at Redford Baptist Church. She also sang in a ladies' trio and later enjoyed singing with the Novi Choralaires. Music filled her home for many years, from her mother playing piano, to Esther singing, to later generations carrying that gift forward. She was especially proud of her grandson, Caeden's musical ability, and whenever he played the piano, everything else could wait.

Esther also knew how to enjoy life. Family vacations were important to her and were never treated as optional. She believed in getting away, spending time together, and making memories. Florida trips, summers at the cottage in Tawas City, and days on the water became treasured family traditions. Though she loved warm weather, she was also known to put on a wetsuit, climb onto a jet ski, and take off across Lake Huron with her big hair bouncing in the wind. Her sense of adventure, courage, and enthusiasm were part of what made her unforgettable.

For the last two years, Esther faced lung cancer with bravery, strength, and the same fighting spirit that defined her life. She did not want to be a burden to anyone, and even as her health declined, she continued thinking of others and doing what she believed needed to be done. She fought hard, loved deeply, and gave generously of herself until the end.

Esther will be remembered for her spirited personality, strong will, beautiful voice, tireless work ethic, and deep faith. She lived a life marked by love, determination, and sacrifice. Above all, she was a family-first woman whose greatest joy was found in caring for those she loved.

Esther is survived by her beloved husband of 59 years, Bob; her devoted sons, Robert and Daniel (Makayla); her treasured grandsons, Nathan, Caeden and Paxton; and many former colleagues and dear friends.  She was preceded in death by her sister, Linda (Richard) Burton.

Family and friends may gather for visitation at the Heeney-Sundquist Funeral Home in downtown Farmington on Wednesday, July 1, from 3-5 pm.  A ceremony honoring Esther's life will commence at 5:00 pm.

Memorial tributes are kindly suggested to the Novi Choralaires.  Please make checks payable to Novi Parks, with Esther Kerr Memorial printed on the memo line.  For those making donations directly to the charity, please mail to Novi Parks and Recreation, 45175 Ten Mile Road, Novi Michigan 48375.

Esther's family will forever remember the love she gave, the music she shared, the strength she showed, and the countless ways she made their lives better.  May she rest in the peace of Christ.