| Graduation Year | Class of 1968 |
| Date of Passing | Oct 14, 2022 |
| About | Our Mother, Esther Gail Goines, 72, quietly drew her last Earthly breath at 2:58pm on Monday, October 24, 2022. Esther peacefully entered into the loving presence of her Heavenly Father and gained her eternal rest just a few short weeks after being diagnosed with Mesothelioma. Esther was born on Easter Sunday, April 9, 1950, as the fourth child of six, to John S. and Gertrude L. (Anderson) Goines. Esther spent her life caring for others as an LPN. Her life's work was performed through the years at Mary's Nursing Home, the ODC, Good Samaritan Hospital, the Muskingum County Home, and as a private duty care provider, spanning a lifetime career of more than 50 years. Esther was preceded in death by her Life Mate, James L. Norris; a stillborn son, Jesse; both parents; and 3 brothers, John, Jr., Larry, and Greg. Surviving to carry her Spirit on are her Sister, Diane, of Seattle, WA and her Brother, Charles (Elaine) of Columbus, OH; her four children; Eugene, Shawna, and Erika of Zanesville, and Jimmy (Emily) of Columbus, OH; her grandchildren, Elijah (Katie), Julian and Greyson, and Corbin, Cortney, Keyonni, Kylan, Kylah, Keyonna, and Wakened. Esther also leaves behind a bevy of family, friends, and those who cared about her to fondly remember her. Over the past few years, you couldn't find Esther without her daughter, Erika. Esther enjoyed being dragged around to way too many golf outings, about a hundred million basketball games, a few poker tables, a bunch of concerts, a cruise ship or two, and Lord knows what else the two of them got into. It was even said that Esther sometimes slept with her shoes on to make sure she didn't miss out on going someplace. She was always ready and eager to go, and you'd better believe that she is still wearing a pair of pink sneakers while she "Walks Around Heaven All Day" now. Eugene, Shawna, and Jimmy all pitched in to keep Mom happy, but Erika was her "Earth Angel" and we are all thankful that Erika was there to make sure Mom was happy, healthy, and safe at all times. It is with very heavy hearts that we wish Mom adieu; with all the love, hugs, and kisses that one person could handle, and until we see you again on the other side, We Love You, Mommy. The family would like to extend special thanks to Mr. Jeremy and the Hospice of Zanesville staff, as well as everyone that stopped by or sent something to our family throughout Mom's illness; including thoughts, prayers, and concerns; whether spoken aloud or not. The most gratitude and thanks, however, goes to the entire staff of Muskingum County Adult and Child Protective Services. This group of truly amazing folks swooped in and provided everything our family needed (and a few things we didn't) without hesitation or question. It cannot go unsaid that you are all greatly appreciated and there is no way that your kindnesses can be repaid. You may call on the family Sunday, October 30, 2022 from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m., and again Monday, October 31, 2022 from 11 a.m. until 12 p.m., with funeral service to follow Monday at 12 p.m. Following funeral services, Esther will be laid to rest in Woodlawn Cemetery. |
