Queen Ester Givens

The charismatic and happy soul of Queen Ester Summerville Givens returned to its creator on Thursday, May 19, 2016. Although her untimely passing leaves a void, her memory will forever live in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. Queen Ester was born into time on June 13, 1961, in Arkadelphia, Arkansas. She grew up in Arkadelphia surrounded by the love of her parents, Eddie L. and Cordelia Ross Summerville, and a large family of sisters and brothers. As a child she was united with the West End Presbyterian Church family. She was a 1980 graduate of Arkadelphia High School. She made friends easily and was known to be outspoken and sincere. Queen married Robert Givens and although their marriage would end they remained friends. Queen Ester was a hard working woman and did the best she could to provide for her children. She was the “Queen” of the Burger King Fast-food restaurant in Arkadelphia having worked there for several years as a crew member and also as the manager. She later worked for McDonald’s in Arkadelphia. Her unparalleled customer service skills enhanced any working environment. Often times working the drive-thru window she would give a quick word of advice or cheer a person’s day with her friendly smile. If you saw her walking around town she would greet you with a jolly wave and continue on her path. She was a strong willed and independent woman. If things needed to get done; you could count on Queen Ester. She was a member of St. Paul AME Church and enjoyed Sunday morning services. She loved family get-togethers and took advantage of every opportunity to life live to the fullest; she knew tomorrow was not a promise. Queen Ester was preceded in death by her brother, Michael Summerville (August 6, 2015) and her sister, Linda K. Hale (February 14, 2016). Those left to forever cherish her love, sense of humor and laughter are: her children, Tunisha Givens of Arkadelphia, Ivan Summerville of Arkadelphia and Candi Givens of Copperas Cove, TX; two grandchildren, Dinari Givens and Malaysia Summerville both of Arkadelphia; her parents, Cordelia Ross-Summerville and Eddie L. (Ella) Summerville of Arkadelphia; four sisters, Pauline (Meredith) Lemons of Hot Springs, Malasena Summerville, Michelle Summerville and Lameka Chatmon all of Arkadelphia; two brothers, Eddie (Teresa) Summerville of Arkadelphia and Ken Ross of Hot Springs, AR. She also leaves her aunts, uncles, several nieces, nephews, cousins, her best Mary Ann Swink Stewart and several other friends. Public visitation will be Monday, May 23, 2016 at 1:00 p.m. at Williams Funeral Home.