Evalyn Mebane Gordon Estes was born on April 10, 1924 in Baskerville, Virginia to Eva Mebane Walters Gordon and Royal Polk Gordon. She was preceded in death by her husband of 65 years, Hollis Mason Estes, Sr., her sister Katherine Ragsdale, and her brother Royal Polk Gordon, Jr. She graduated from Madison College in 1944, and then studied at the Presbyterian School of Christian Education before getting married.

“E. Mebane” as she was known by her friends, loved the Christian faith, her family, cooking, entertaining, playing bridge, crocheting, her farm house, and poetry. She celebrated memorable events in the lives of her children and grandchildren through her original, humorous, yet insightful poetry. Her devotion to saying a lengthy blessing at meal time, often left the delicious food cold.

She was a gifted fifth grade teacher at Lacrosse Elementary School. She taught Sunday School for many years, sang in the choir and was a life long member of the South Hill Presbyterian Church, where she was the first elected female Elder. Many years later, at age ninety, she started a prayer shawl group, hosting ladies in her home to knit and have fellowship.

She was an independent woman, well traveled, and she raised her children to be self-reliant. She is survived by five children: Carolyn Estes Paulette (Bill) of Richmond, VA; Hollis Mason Estes Jr. (Susan) of South Hill, VA; Evalyn Estes Butts (Jeff) of Virginia Beach, VA; George Cary Estes (Lisa) of Goochland, VA, and Ellen Estes Wolbers (George) of Charlotte, NC. She was known fondly as “GranE” to 9 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren.

She will be remembered for her love of people and her welcoming ways. She passed away peacefully in her home surrounded by loving family on March 26, 2025.

A private celebration of life will be held at a later date.