Ek, Esther Lou (Abernathy)

Esther Lou Ek (Abernathy)
March 06, 1952 - January 30, 2025
NLRHS Class of 1970

Esther Lou Ek Abernathy, age 72, of North Little Rock, Arkansas, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones. Born and raised in North Little Rock, Esther was a talented musician who found joy in the melodies of the clarinet, saxophone, and piano. Her love for classical music was a defining part of her life, and she especially cherished playing Für Elise, a piece that resonated deeply with her soul.

She was a proud graduate of North Little Rock High School and remained close to dear friends like M.J. Pearle and many others. Later, she pursued her education in accounting, earning a two-year degree from Southwestern Illinois College in Belleville, Illinois.

Esther was a loving mother to three children, Paul Weir, Kelley Abernathy (Stoltz), and Brian Abernathy, who will forever cherish her warmth, wisdom, and unwavering support. She was also a devoted grandmother to Kaitlyn Stoltz, Riley Stoltz, and Peyton Abernathy, who brought her immense joy and pride.

She was the beloved daughter of Raymond Warren EK and Frances Ruth Land, whose love shaped the kind and compassionate woman she became. Esther’s love for music, her gentle spirit, and her deep dedication to family and friends will be profoundly missed. Those who knew her will always remember her as a woman who found beauty in the world around her, whether through the notes of a song or the kindness she shared with honor.

Esther had been dealing with several health issues but passed peacefully in her sleep. She will be cremated and placed at a section in St. Matthews Episcopal Church in Lincoln, NE.

Funeral arrangments are still pending.