Esther M. Brock

6/2/2026

Esther Marcella Brock, 100, of Skaneateles, passed away peacefully on June 2, 2026, at Finger Lakes Center for Living.

Esther was a remarkable woman whose kindness, generosity, and joyful spirit touched countless lives. She possessed a rare gift for making people feel welcomed, valued, and loved. To her family, friends, and all who knew her, Esther was a bright and steady light—a truly special human being whose presence made the world a better place. Her love, wisdom, and gentle strength will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Esther was born in Niles on November 23, 1925, to John and Madeline O’Brien. She graduated from Moravia High School and attended Paulson Business School. She began her career as a secretary at the Colombian Rope Company in Auburn, where she worked for ten years.

On November 10, 1945, she married the love of her life, Reginald “Stan” Brock, and together they built a life centered on family, hard work, and devotion to one another. They purchased their family home in Mottville, where they raised their children and created decades of cherished memories. After raising her family, Esther began working as a secretary with Skaneateles Central Schools, where she worked for 35 years.

Following retirement, Stan and Esther enjoyed spending winters in Bayonet Point, Florida, while returning each summer to West Lake Garden Apartments in Skaneateles. Eventually, they settled in Elbridge to be closer to family and friends before returning to Skaneateles and living at Village Landing. For the past two years, Esther resided at Fingerlakes Center for Living.

Esther embraced life with enthusiasm and gratitude. She loved being outdoors—whether it was fishing on Skaneateles Lake, snowmobiling, or cross-country skiing at the family camp in Bear Swamp or attending local softball games. She enjoyed cooking breakfast for the golfing crew and playing cards. Family was at the center of her life, and she found great joy in supporting her great-grandchildren. Whether cheering from the sidelines at their sporting events, attending school concerts, plays, musicals, or celebrating their accomplishments, Esther was a constant and loving presence. Yet perhaps her greatest joy came from giving to others. Through sewing, knitting, quilting, and crocheting, Esther poured her love into every handmade creation. Her gifts warmed homes, comforted loved ones, and became treasured reminders of her caring heart.

More than anything, Esther cherished her family. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother whose unwavering support and encouragement shaped generations. Her home was a place of comfort and laughter, and her love was felt in both grand gestures and everyday acts of kindness. She leaves behind a legacy ompassion, resilience, creativity, and devotion that will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know her.

Esther is survived by her daughter, Sharon (Allen) Decarr; daughter-in-law, Jeanette Brock; grandchildren, Jeffrey (Cybil), Amy, Penny (Jamison), Janice, and Matthew (Stefanie); eight great-grandchildren; and many dear friends whom she considered family.

She was predeceased by her beloved husband of 77 years, Stan; her parents, John and Madeline O’Brien; and her sons, Tom and Ron.

Though her family takes comfort in a life well lived and a century of memories shared, Esther's absence leaves an immeasurable void. Her light, her laughter, and her boundless love will remain in the hearts of all who knew her.

The family extends its deepest gratitude to the extraordinary staff of Fingerlakes Center for Living for the compassionate care, kindness, and friendship they provided Esther during the last two years of her life. Their dedication brought comfort, dignity, and joy to her days, and their support meant more to our family than words can express. They were truly angels among us, and we will forever be grateful for the love and care they showed Esther.

A Graveside Service will be held on Thursday, June 4th 1 pm at Lake View Cemetery, Skaneateles, NY.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Esther's name to: Fingerlakes Center for Living, Attn: Recreations Department, 20 Park Ave., Auburn, NY 13021.

To send condolences, please visit: robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.