Born on September 4, 1943, in Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania, Esther Mae Bally was one of eleven siblings in the loving family of Wilbert and Margaret Bischoff. From an early age, she demonstrated a deep love for family, faith, and a heart of compassion and service that would guide her entire life.
In 1964, Esther earned her nursing certification from Beaver Valley General Hospital and went on to serve her country as an OBGYN nurse in the United States Air Force in 1966. Her dedication to the care of others extended far beyond her military service, as she continued working in various nursing roles throughout her life. Her calling to serve continued throughout her life as she poured herself into ministry, pastoring children with joy, wisdom, laughter, and most importantly prayer.
On April 12, 1969, Esther married her lifelong companion, Robert “Bob” Bally. Their 56-year marriage was a testament to enduring love and partnership. Together they raised two children, Kristin Arlene and James Christian, and later delighted in the joy of their grandchildren-Lorin, Nora, and Nicholas.
Esther’s passion for children was evident in every season of her life. She spent years teaching 5th and 6th grade in Christian education, ministered as a daycare director, and provided godly nurture and guidance to countless young lives. For a special chapter in her life, she also “held the keys” to the historic town of Elsah in Illinois-helping to run Maple Leaf Cottages, the Elsah Post Office, and the village museum, becoming a fixture in the community!
Esther’s ability to seek God for His direction in her life, while revolving her career moves around, caring for her children, was rooted in solid Christian family values and faith-as a model mother and homemaker. This is what guided her for various job opportunities that only God could have orchestrated.
Esther’s faith was her foundation and hope. Unquestionably--a passionate prayer warrior, she lived out the Gospel through both word and deed. She faced life’s trials-including a long, courageous battle with stage 4 breast cancer-with hope, peace, and trust in Jesus Christ. The song “Through It All” by Andraé Crouch was her anthem, a reflection of her belief that every season, joyful or painful, drew her closer to God.
Family was Esther’s greatest earthly treasure. She loved deeply and gave selflessly-to her children, grandchildren, and all those she considered family in the faith. Her legacy of love, integrity, and spiritual strength will continue through the lives she touched and the seeds of faith she planted.
In 2018, Esther was diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic breast cancer when most only live two years. True to her resilient spirit, she met head on that prognosis-through prayer and medicine, living seven more years filled with grace, determination, and steadfast love. Even as she battled fatigue, physical and mental obstacles, and pain, she remained devoted to her family and continued caring for her beloved husband until her final days.
Esther Mae Bally peacefully entered into eternal rest on Thursday, May 1 on the National Day of Prayer, surrounded by the love of her family and the presence of the Lord she so faithfully served! A devoted mother, grandmother, Air Force veteran, and servant of God, Esther’s life was a testimony to grace, strength, and unwavering faith.
Esther was preceded in death by her parents, Wilbert and Margaret Bischoff; her brothers Wilbert, Paul, Donald, Robert, James, and Richard; and her sisters Margaret and Karen. She is survived by her husband Bob; her daughter Kristin Van-Thomas (Ty); her son James Bally (Marsha); and her cherished grandchildren Lorin (Hayden), Nora, and Nicholas. She is also survived by her sisters Shirley Campbell (Jim) and Ruth Ann Osman (Rick); her brother-in-law Scott Bally; and numerous nieces, nephews, and a host of friends who will forever cherish her memory.
Esther Mae Bally lived a life marked by faith, service, love, and perseverance. Her laughter, prayers, and legacy of godliness will echo through generations. Through it all, she trusted in the Lord-and now rests joyfully in His presence.
Visitation will be from 10 am until time of Funeral Service at 11 am with Rev Ty Van-Thomas officiating.
Burial will follow at Jefferson Barrack National Cemetery in St. Louis, MO.
Memorial may be made to Evelyn's House.
