Esther (Milone) Gerhart Blakely, 78, 423 S. Morgan died Friday October 7, 1983 at Burgin Manor East. Services at Summers Funeral Home with burial in Mt. Pleasant Cemetery.

She was born in Richland County April 1, 1905, the daughter of Steven and Minnie Heath Milone. She was married at Salem July 23, 1982 to Edgar Blakely, who survives.

She was preceded in death by her first husband, Pearlie B. Gerhart, in 1972 and second husband, Leon Newton, in 1981.

A retired school teacher, she was a graduate of Eastern Illinois University and a member of the United Methodist Church of Mt. Pleasant. She was also a member of the American Legion Auxilary and the Rebecca Lodge. She taught grades 1 and 2 at Parkersburg Grade School from 1948-1955.

Survivors include a step-son, Harry Gerhart, Hayward, CA; a step-daughter, Mrs. Jim Parkman, Titusville, FL, a sister Mina, Bakersfield, CA; three step-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. 

Published in Olney Daily Mail (IL)