June 30, 1928 – February 4, 2026

Esther Lela Shultz, age 97, passed away on February 4, 2026. She was born on June 30, 1928, in Indianapolis, Indiana.

In 1948, Esther married her beloved husband of over 70 years, Bill. Early in their marriage, they traveled with PG&E, living in a travel trailer before settling in Grass Valley in 1950. Together, they raised two children, James and Margaret. Esther was preceded in death by her husband, Bill, in 2018, and her son, James, in 2016.

Esther lived a life rooted in service, faith, and kindness. She was deeply involved in Peace Lutheran Church, where her faith guided her actions and relationships. For more than 40 years, she volunteered in elementary school classrooms, helping young students learn to read—an effort that left a lasting impact on countless children and families.

She found joy in life’s simple pleasures: tending her garden, reading, sewing, crafting, and writing letters to those she loved. She cherished her friendships, maintaining lifelong bonds with both her high school friends and her church community. Esther was known for her generosity, and deep compassion for both people and animals. She was also strong-willed and spoke her mind with honesty and conviction—a quality that reflected her strength of character and sincerity.

She is lovingly remembered by her daughter, Margaret Shultz of Grass Valley; her granddaughter, Erin Doherty (James) of Roseville; her great-grandsons, Tyler, Jared, and Caleb Doherty; and her granddaughter, Emily Shultz of Grass Valley.

A memorial service will be held at Peace Lutheran Church at 2:00 p.m. on April 25.