Esther Marie Piper Soto, 53

DOVER - Esther Marie Piper Soto, passed away on Wednesday, Oct. 15, 2008, in her home. She was 53. Esther was born Jan. 12, 1955 in Milton, daughter of the late Herman D. Piper Sr. and Frances Burton Piper. Esther grew up in Milton and attended Cape Henlopen School District, and made several long lasting relationships with her classmates. She graduated from Cape Henlopen High School in 1973. She then went on to continue her education at Salisbury State University. She graduated from Delaware Technical & Community College in Dover, where she was on the dean's list and received a degree in business administration. She worked at Dover Air Force Base from 1991 to 1998, and Catalog Resources from 1993 to 1998. Esther was known for her hard work and dedication, she was very determined, spirit filled and ambitious woman, full of fun and very loving. Everyone who knew her, loved her. She loved to make use of her skills, making her famous desserts. In her earlier years, Esther attended Bethel AME Church in Milton, and later attended several churches. She fell in love with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ and attended First State Christian Community Church of Dover were she was a member under the leadership of Pastor Charles Washington III. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by four brothers, Russell, Alfred, Herman Jr. and Richard Piper; one sister, MaryAnn Piper. Esther is survived by her only child, LaNisha R. Soto; her fiancé, Eric Tidwell of Dover; two grandchildren, Jalen Soto and Shakyla Soto, both of Dover; baby, Jamya Esther Soto-Tidwell (due to enter this world in 4 weeks); a sister, Martha M. Piper of Ellendale; five brothers and three sisters-in-laws, David and (wife Ardith) Piper of Ellendale, Samuel Piper of Milford, Arthur and (wife Elvenlene) of Ellendale, Noah and (wife Eunice) Piper of Milton, and Paul Piper of Bridgeville; one aunt, Roberta Burton of Milton; best friend, Dorothy Scott of Dover; many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends; and an extended church family of friends. Friends may call from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at Bennie Smith Funeral Home, Milford, for a viewing and for a separate viewing at 11 a.m. Saturday at the Bennie Smith Funeral Home, 717 W. Division St., Dover, where celebration of life services will begin at 1 p.m. Burial will be in the Whatcoat Cemetery, Dover.