Esther Remel (Holt) Blaney

Esther Remel Blaney-Sloan passed away on July 15, 2024, at the age of 83 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Born on December 8, 1940, in Bluefield, West Virginia, Esther was a vibrant and energetic soul who brought light and warmth to every room she entered.

Esther led a diverse and dynamic career. She worked at Ingalls Iron Work Steel in Verona, PA, as a painter and extended her talents to the community as a hairdresser and personal housekeeping. She later became a supervisor at Pitt University Research Lab and was self-employed with EB Cleaning. Esther also dedicated her time as a personal caregiver with Loving Kindness Healthcare Systems, showing her natural inclination to nurture and care for others.

A lifelong learner, Esther attended Verona Elementary School and Verona High School in Verona, PA, and furthered her education at Pitt Technical School in Pittsburgh, PA. Her education played a pivotal role in the diverse career paths she would follow.

Esther was deeply committed to her faith and was an active member of Shiloh Baptist Church, Verona Methodist, and Mt. Olive Baptist Church as the Associate Pastor. Her faith was evident in her everyday actions, often offering prayers and words of encouragement to those around her, whether in Walmart or a doctor's office, always ready to share a blessing.

Her personal life was filled with joy derived from arts & crafts, specially making centerpieces and floral arrangements. Esther was renowned for her culinary skills, particularly her sweet potato pies, cobblers, and cheesecakes, which were a highlight at family gatherings. She had a unique and special bond with her two daughters and son, who cherished her tender, generous spirit, and the unwavering support she provided for them.

Esther is survived by William Alvin Sloan; daughters, Remel Elizabeth Sloan, Denise Renee Sloan, and Joseph La'Mar Page (son) (Kimberly Page). She also leaves behind her brothers, Robert Lee Holt, Jr., and George Woody (Rita Woody), along with her nephews, Jason and Christopher Toler, nieces Nicole Winzer and Shoshana Woody. She was preceded in death by Daisy Park King (Mother) Calvin Samuel Toler (Brother).

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Community Life Wilkinsburg, Pennsylvania, in memory of Esther. Her legacy of kindness, generosity, and devotion will continue to inspire and influence everyone she knew. Esther's life was a testament to the power of faith, the beauty of creativity, and the impact of unconditional love.

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