Esther Habecker Nolt, 93, of Lancaster, peacefully went to be with her Lord and Savior on Friday, August 21, 2026, at her home. Esther was one of seven daughters born to the late Christian G. and Elsie H. Mowrer Habecker. She was raised on their family farm in Manor Township and loved to recount stories of happy times growing up with her sisters, and picking wildflowers in the meadow.
A graduate of Penn Manor High School, Esther was employed by The Hamilton Watch Co. until she married J. Donald Nolt on April 8, 1956. They celebrated their 70th anniversary this year. While raising her family, Esther started her own custom-made drapery business, The Colonial Drapery Workshoppe, retiring after twenty years, in 1990. A lifelong member of Central Manor Church, she taught children’s Sunday School for over 20 years, served on the decorating committee and sang in special choral presentations. Esther’s faith in the Lord was a constant - evident in the life she lived and her love of church.God blessed Esther with a natural gift of artfulness and creativity….she loved arranging flowers, including those for her daughter’s and granddaughter’s weddings, decorating, sewing, and painting with acrylics. Holidays and family events were always memorable with her added special touch. She was also known for her delicious homemade pies, pastry, and deviled eggs.
Esther enjoyed watching birds, photography, traveling, and many years of going to the mountains - especially sitting in the woods with her husband calling turkey, or deer hunting. She appreciated all forms of flora and fauna, and the changing beauty of each season as it unfolded.
Surviving in addition to her husband, one son: Brian K. Nolt and one daughter: Denise (Jeffrey L.) Nolt-Ott. Three grandchildren and two great-grandsons. One sister: Edna (Richard P.) Shenk. She was preceded in death by her five sisters, Miriam, Anna, Martha, Mary Ellen, and Florence.
The family would like to express their appreciation to Hospice and Community Care, for their support and wonderful care of Esther during her illness.
A Private Graveside Service and Burial will be held for the family at Habecker Mennonite Cemetery with Pastor Scott Davis officiating. Arrangements by the Workman Funeral Homes, Inc., Mountville/Columbia. To send an online condolence, visit the condolence page.
