Birth date: Jan 8, 1930 Death date: May 24, 2026
Esther Iliescu, a devoted mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 24, 2026, in Belmont, Massachusetts. Born in Cleveland, Ohio, on January 8, 1930, to the late Elizabeth and George Gheta, Esther lived a life Read Obituary
I remember going with my mom, Esther, to the Hostess Factory where we bought a box of a dozen powdered sugar donuts, which she devoured in the car on the way home. She was covered in powdered sugar, a vision of her that still makes me laugh. I will miss you so, mama.
I remember Esther's sharp sense of humor and the fun conversations we had about Romanian cuisine, especially the comfort food she grew up with in Ohio. She loved flowers and took special joy in growing red geraniums in her garden in Belmont.
My favorite memory of Esther is her sitting placidly on the porch with her beloved parakeet, both enjoying the pages of a book. She had a gentle affinity with animals, and they mimicked her sunny disposition with faithful renditions of her voice, in cheerful conversations, and even songs. Her vital presence will remain for us to love and cherish.
I have so many joyful memories of time spent with the Iliescu family - enjoying delicious meals, delighting in their gardens, marveling at Mrs. Iliescu’s orange tree, and laughing. On one occasion, Doina and I tottered out of the shopping mall in new high heeled shoes. Mrs. Iliescu was waiting for us in the car. When she spotted us, she broke Into contagious laughter. It still makes me laugh to think of it. She generously showed me how to make her fabulous vinete, which my family continues to enjoy. Mrs. Iliescu’s warmth, love, and laughter will live in our hearts forever.
Karen Statser
Something I remember most fondly about Esther was her laughter. I recall one time sitting with her in Belmont as she described playing kick the can when she was a little girl in Cleveland. She laughed with delight as she recalled her childhood experiences and you could see in her joy that the little girl had never gone away. Esther was a warm and genuine person, and you felt that every time you spoke with her, even through her final years. God bless you Esther R.I.P. - Steve Kirschner
Thank You Lord for taking her Home, where Esther longed to be for so long it seemed. There will always be a part of my heart that is all Mama Esther. To pick one fond memory, is impossible. But the funniest moment we shared together I can. One day, we arrived to the bingo hall and our usual spot was taken. In fact all spaces were taken in the lot. So around the front of the building is where we parked. With our feathers all in a ruffle, we pressed on to proceed to go in the bingo hall. When finished, we went out the usual exit door. (I forgot we parked out front) There, a City shuttle bus was parked just outside the door. We had to walk around the bus to get to my car. As we walk by, I just so happened to look up at bus, and there’s a huge picture of Esther and Rodica on the side of the bus!!! We never laughed so hard together!!! What were the chances of that happening? And if we had parked in our usual spot, we would of never seen that picture! Everything happens for a reason. On that day..it was to experience pure joy from the Lord up above. Fly high Mama Esther. Until we laugh together again…love always, Elaine 🙏❤️🥹😇🙏
