Esther Lee Hasting

It is with heavy hearts and deep sadness that we announce the passing of Esther Lee Hasting. She left this world peacefully on June 5, 2025, at the age of 76.

A true lover of life, Esther had a vibrant, fun-loving, and free spirit. She embraced life with a sense of adventure and curiosity; consistently finding ways to bring a smile to those around her. Her ability to make simple moments feel extraordinary will never be forgotten.

Esther was a fiery, independent yet playful woman whose life story was often described by others as cinematic. Her struggles and triumphs a testament to her character and perseverance.

Esther was born on April 2, 1949, in Canton, Ohio. She attended East Canton High School and after graduating, Esther pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology at Kent State University. Her early professional journey began in the medical field, first as a medical transcriptionist in Ohio, then as a surgical oncology nurse for Dr. Thomas Marinis in Texas. Esther’s presence made a lasting impact on countless patients, offering them not only medical care but comfort during challenging times.

Mid-career, Esther pivoted into real estate. She gained recognition as a successful real estate agent, widely respected for her integrity, productivity, and professionalism. Her passion for helping others continued when she opened the doors to Midland Creative Mortgage. Through this venture, she helped numerous homebuyers secure financing for their first homes—and often subsequent homes—further cementing her legacy of making a tangible difference in the lives of others.

Enthusiastic for a new adventure, Esther returned to school in her 60s to earn a Master’s degree and counseling license. Counseling became a deeply fulfilling career.  She dedicated herself to improving the lives of veterans and others facing mental health and substance abuse challenges, providing not only guidance but genuine compassion. Her focus on the wellbeing of those she served was evident to all who knew her.

A devoted mother and grandmother “Nana”, she dedicated herself wholeheartedly to the people she loved. She encouraged their independence nurturing their creativity and intellectual interests.

Spending time with family—and friends who became family—was her greatest joy, and her home was a place of comfort and solace. She cherished time with her church community at Stonegate Fellowship, as faith and a strong moral compass were guiding principles throughout her life.

One of her most appreciated gifts revealed itself in the kitchen. Esther was an extraordinary baker with a particular knack for making delicious bread, cinnamon rolls, and Christmas confections that became a beloved tradition in her family. The aroma and taste of her freshly baked goods will be a cherished memory for those fortunate enough to have shared in her creations.

She is survived by her children, daughter, Samantha Hasting Smith, and former son-in-law, Justin Smith; daughter, Dr. Mande Hasting, and her husband Dr. Casey Charvet; stepson, Morris Hasting, Jr., and his wife, Dana Hasting; and beloved grandchildren, Claire Smith, Hayden Smith, Morgan Hasting, and Davis Hasting. She is also survived by her brother, Donald Aukerman, and his wife, Bretta Aukerman; sisters, Eleanor Cartwright and Sue Ann Fair and her husband, Arnold Fair; along with many cherished nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and dear friends. She is preceded in death by her parents, Hazel Aukerman and Elmer Aukerman; brothers, Earl Aukerman and Robert Aukerman; and father of her daughters, Morris Hasting, Sr.

Esther leaves behind a legacy of authenticity, strength, and generosity. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. She will be profoundly missed.

A memorial service will be held on June 22, 2025, at 3:00 pm, at The Branch at Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home. The family requests that donations be made to Soldiers Angels (soldiersangels.org) in her honor.

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