Esther G. (Shedd) DeVost

Mrs. Esther G. (Shedd) DeVost, 99, of Salisbury Center, New York , passed away peacefully on Wednesday afternoon, June 30, 2021 in the comfort of her own home.

She was born on July 6, 1921 in the Town of Salisbury, New York and was the daughter of the late, Jesse and Bessie (Crowell) Shedd. Esther was educated at the Hopson Road Schoolhouse and then attended Dolgeville Central School where she graduated at the age of 16.

In 1943, Esther was united in marriage to Sheldon Brown and they shared in the joy of the birth of their first and only son, Roland. After six years of marriage, Sheldon passed away unexpectedly. In 1953, Esther was united in marriage to Corliss B. Gray until his untimely passing in 1954. On December 15, 1963, Esther was united in marriage to George DeVost in the Town of Salisbury, New York. The couple shared a union of 36 years together until Mr. DeVost passed away in 1999.

Esther was previously employed with Daniel Green Shoe Company in Dolgeville, New York, as Supervisor of the Payroll Department. She served the company for 29 years until her retirement on July 31, 1990.

Throughout her life, Esther was a steadfast, strong and independent woman. She always managed to take care of her son, property, and held a defiant will to succeed at anything she put her mind to. One of her greatest accomplishments was her Christmas tree farm that she owned and operated for over 55 years.  Esther was always determined to work hard.

She was a faithful member of the Dolgeville United Methodist Church where she was in the church choir for over 60 years, was past treasurer for 20 years, and also the secretary and treasurer of the church Sunday School program. Esther was also a  member of the Auskerada Maques Rock City Chapter #308, Order of the Eastern Star for 71 years where she served as Past Matron several times.

Esther shared immense enjoyment in crocheting afghan blankets for her family and friends. She would gift the blankets for special occasions and milestone birthdays. Her most precious time was spent in the company of her beloved family and took great pride in her grandchildren and great-grandchildren's accomplishments throughout their lives.

She is survived by her son, Roland Brown and his wife Charlotte, of Depew, NY; two grandsons, Jason Brown and his wife Jennifer, and Adam Brown and his wife Maria; seven great-grandchildren, Brennan Brown, Nadia Brown, Alexis Brown, Spencer Brown, Brianna Siudak, Kayla Brown, and Isabella Brown; a sister, Edythe Darling and her husband Gordon; in- laws, Herman Brown and his wife Joan, and Arnold Brown and his wife Pat; several nieces and nephews; great-nieces and great-nephews; and extended family.

Esther was predeceased by her husbands, Sheldon Brown, Corliss Gray and George DeVost as well as her sisters, Evelyn Darling and her husband Stewart, and Elizabeth Shulenburg and her husband Stuart.

On July 6, 2021, Esther's 100th birthday was to be celebrated by all who knew and loved her. On July 6, 2021 we will remember and honor Esther by holding a memorial service at the Dolgeville United Methodist Church with a public calling hour from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. with a religious service to follow beginning at 12 p.m. with the Order of the Eastern Star followed by Pastor Anthony Bradseth. Procession will follow to Stratford Cemetery in Stratford, New York, where she will be laid to rest. The family is asking for everyone to please wear a mask to greet the family during calling hours and while standing. Thank you in advance for your cooperation. 

The Family of Esther G. DeVost would like to give a special thanks to her caregivers who helped take care of and keep Esther in the comfort of her home these past four years. Many thanks to Paula Eggleston, Shirley Giarrusso, Deborah Randall, Patricia Haberick, Caryl Hopson, Penny Cool, Eunice Hight, Linda Ashe, Lorraine Peets, Melanie Perkins, Carole Danforth, Ariel Jenison, and Tanya White.

In lieu of floral offerings, please consider memorial contributions to Dolgeville United Methodist Church, 21 N. Helmer Ave., Dolgeville , NY 13329. Please note in Memo: "In Memory of Esther G. DeVost" so that family can acknowledge the gift.

To leave a message of sympathy for Esther's Family, please visit www.millerplonkafuneralhome.com and sign the tribute wall.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Esther G. (Shedd) DeVost, please visit our floral store.