Queen Esther Steadman, 98, a cherished mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and devoted servant of God, passed away peacefully on Friday, November 14, 2025, at her residence in Charlotte, NC. Her life was radiant testament to love, faith, and service.

Born in Edgefield County, South Carolina, Queen Esther was the youngest of four children and the only daughter of Henry Tanksley and Carrie Washington Tanksley. She grew up surrounded by the strength of family and the values of compassion and perseverance.

After graduating from junior college, she moved to Charlotte, North Carolina, where she married Joseph Steadman and raised four children, Dolores Davis of Jonesboro, Georgia, Brenda Steadman of Charlotte, North Carolina, Joseph Steadman Jr. (deceased) and Phyllis Oates of Charlotte, North Carolina

Queen Esther was a proud grandmother to Angela Brown, Cornelius Davis, and Zael Steadman, and a loving great-grandmother to Nicholas Davis, Taylor Davis, Taya Davis, Adia Brown, Nadia Brown, and Turner Davis.

She dedicated her professional life to healing as a surgical technician at Charlotte Memorial Hospital, serving with precision and care until her retirement. Spiritually, she was a faithful deaconess at The Park Church, where her devotion and grace touched countless lives.

Queen Esther lived a life filled with love for her family, her community, and her Creator.  Her life was a radiant testament to love, faith, and service.