Essie Mae Lane, age 82, of the Town of Dunkirk, died Monday, August 24, 2015. Essie was born in Terrell County, Georgia on November 20, 1932 to the late William and Gussie Mae Thomas.
She is survived by her children: Curtis Marshall (late Maxine) of Virginia Beach, VA, Alonzo Lane (Maddie) of Dunkirk, NY and Glendora Lane, also of Dunkirk, NY; two adopted children: Susan Thomas and Karl Thomas; siblings: Herbert Thomas (Jean), Sarah Marshall, John Thomas (late Willary), James Thomas (Sharon), David Thomas (Ella), Dorothy Richards (Clyde) and Doretha Roland (Clarence).
Also survived by a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandchild and nieces and nephews. Besides her parents, Essie was preceded in death by her first husband, Clarence Marshall, and second husband, Lonnie Lane; four brothers: William, Joseph, Eddie, and Leroy Thomas; two sisters: Elizabeth Lockett and Elegra Carey.
Essie always had ambition and determination; she put herself through cosmetology school and became a licensed stylist in 1967.
Essie's most noteworthy accomplishment was when she learned about Jehovah and became a devoted servant of his in 1958. She was an excellent mother who trained her children to both love and obey Jehovah. She was a devoted wife who continued to do as 1 Peter 3:1, "They may be won without a word through the conduct of your wives." She demonstrated this and after 46 years of marriage. Her ministry and worship to Jehovah was always the priority of her life. During her illness, even though bed ridden, she conducted Bible studies. She regularly listened to the meeting over the phone, giving talks and always had a comment to make.
She was generous and had a deep love for people that just became part of her life. She had a strong appreciation for all of those who helped and assisted her during her time of need.
A Memorial Service will be held at the Larson-Timko Funeral Home, 20 Central Avenue on Saturday, August 29 at 1 p.m. Online condolences may be made at www.larsontimkofuneralhome.com.
Obituary from the Dunkirk Observer
