Esther Marilyn Madison

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved Esther Marilyn Madison, aged 87, of Mesa, Arizona. Esther passed away peacefully on October 19, 2023.

Esther was born to Carl and Mary Swenson on March 4, 1936, in Portland, Oregon and was preceded in death by her 13 siblings. 

Esther was the cherished wife of the late Raymond Madison, whom she married on October 31, 1964.

Esther attended Mississippi University for Women where she achieved her bachelor's and nationally recognized nursing license. She was a dedicated nurse at Gulf Springs and Mesa Lutheran Hospitals, where she cared for countless patients with a tender hand and a warm smile. Esther loved jewelry, antiques, traveling, and was a charismatic storyteller. She was the diamond of our family, a treasure that lit up every room, and the cornerstone of gatherings and celebrations that brought joy and laughter to our lives.

In remembering Esther, we are reminded of the sweetness of life and the enduring spirit of a strong beautiful woman who was truly the heart of her family. Like a star etched into the night sky, her radiant spirit ensures that our diamond will forever shine.

Esther leaves behind her devoted children: Georgeanna Ekaitis and her husband James, Kathryn Doyle, and Richard Madison and his spouse Todd Sherry.

She was the proud grandmother of: Jefferson Ekaitis and wife Rhonda, Michael Ekaitis, Monica Figueroa and her husband Mark, Margo Vinson and her husband Daniel, Morgan Doyle, and Justin Melore.

Esther was also the great-grandmother of: Khaig Snow and his spouse Shiean, Jaimi Adams and her spouse Tyler, Taylor Ekaitis and her fiancé Cody, Khirey Leisch and her spouse Tyler, Tanner Gillespie and fiancé Darren Rowland, Gage Ekaitis, and Jake Figueroa; and three great-great-grandchildren: Luna Snow, Amelia Ekaitis, and Colin Adams; and was preceded in death by her great-grandson Braxton Vinson. A service to celebrate Esther's life will take place at 6:00 pm on Monday November 13th, at Family Burial & Cremation Center at 237 South Sirrine, Suite #101 Mesa, Arizona 85210 with a subsequent VA service on November 14th at 2:00 pm at The National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona at 23029 N Cave Creek Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85024.