Esther Marie Waller, age 84, of Danville, Virginia, peacefully went to be with the Lord, on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at Riverside Health and Rehabilitation Center. She was born on June 19, 1942, in Pittsylvania County, Virginia, to the late Willie Thornton and Annie Morrison Thornton.

Esther was educated in the Pittsylvania County school system and graduated from Southside High School. She was employed by A.C. Furniture for many years before retiring. Esther was a faithful member of Spirit Led Temple, where she enjoyed worship and fellowship with her church family.

In addition to her parents, Marie was preceded in death by one sister, Carrie Galloway; and five brothers, Charles Adams, Archie Thornton, Alonzo Thornton, Walter Morrison, and Cecil J. Thornton.

Esther leaves to cherish her precious memories two daughters, Jacqueline M. Farmer of Danville, Virginia, and Shelby J. Clark of Virginia Beach, Virginia; one son, James L. Waller, Jr. and his wife, Deborah of Crofton, Maryland; one sister, Vearnna “Shorty” Harris of Danville, Virginia; three brothers, Willie O. Thornton of Maryland, James M. Thornton of Cascade, Virginia, and M.C. “Jim” Thornton, Sr. of Martinsville, Virginia. She also leaves thirteen grandchildren, thirty-two great-grandchildren, five great-great-grandchildren, sister-in-law, Hildred Thorton of Danville, VA; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends who will forever cherish her memory.

A visitation service will be held on Thursday, June 25, 2026, at 12 noon with the funeral service at 12:30 p.m. at the C.R.V. Memorial Chapel at Hairston Funeral Home, 301 Fayette St., Martinsville with Bishop Elect Gerald Kidd, Eulogist. Interment will follow in Danville Memorial Gardens, 510 Church Ave., Danville, Virginia.

A public viewing will be held on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, at Hairston Funeral Home between the hours of 1 p.m. until 5 p.m. The family welcomes friends at the home of her granddaughter, Candy Walker, 618 Shelton St., Danville, VA. Live streaming of the funeral service will be available at Hairston Funeral Home live via Facebook.

Though she has departed from this earthly life, the love, wisdom, and memories Esther shared will remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. May her legacy continue to live on through her family and friends.

Courteous, efficient and dependable services provided by Hairston Funeral Home.