Obituary of Sarah Fay Essary

Sarah Fay Gibson was born in Middlesboro, Kentucky on March 26, 1946.  She was one of six children born from the union of John Henry Gibson and Lois (Bussell) Gibson.  At a young age, her family moved to Michigan to settle in Monroe.  It was there that she was educated at Lincoln School.   

Sarah married Charles "Eddy" Essary on February 20, 1971, in Monroe.  For many years she cared for the needs of her husband and four children as a homemaker.   She was “mom” or “grandma” to her children’s friends as well as the other neighborhood children.  She maintained a neat home with her holiday decorating being a favorite pastime.  Those who heard of her seasonal enhancements typically drove by the home, even out of their way, to take in the festive displays.

Following Charles’ passing on April 30, 1998, she took a position at Crafts 2000 to fill her time and make a little extra money.  Her employment spanned 9.5 years before her retirement in 2008.  While working at the store she had the privilege to spend time with her daughter and granddaughter who were also employed there. 

Sarah loved spending time with her grandchildren and looked forward to seeing them.  She liked going out to eat and visiting casinos to challenge her luck.  Sarah was very generous and thoughtful and was an excellent gift giver.  She enjoyed the outdoors and was continually fascinated by God’s creation, always making time to take in the beauty of nature and the wildlife.  She delighted in collecting gem stones.

Sarah Fay Essary, age 77 of Monroe passed away at the University of Michigan Medical Center on Wednesday; January 31, 2024, at 11:07pm. Her passing was preceded by her parents; her husband: Charles “Eddy” Essary on April 30, 1998; a daughter: Tina Sharp-Essary on May 10, 2017; a sister-in-law: Judy Gibson; and two nephews: Scotty Gibson and Ronnie Gibson.

To cherish her memory, she leaves three children: Doug M. (Dustie) Russeau of Monroe, Donny Russeau of Curtisville, and Gina M. Essary of Monroe; five siblings:  Ronnie (Janie) Gibson, Evelyn Ray, Philip Gibson, Donna Gibson, and Kenny (Violet) Gibson; six grandchildren: Sarah (Rex), Sabrina, Samantha (Robbie), Dylan, Alena, Brandon, and Gage; many great grandchildren; and many friends.

Friends may gather from 3:00pm until 8:00pm on Tuesday; February 6, 2024, at Merkle Funeral Service, North Monroe; 2442 North Monroe Street, Monroe, Michigan 48162 (734) 384-5185.  A Celebration of Her Life will take place at Merkle’s on Wednesday; February 7, 2024, at 11:00am.  Reverend B.J. McDaniel pastor of One Way Christian Fellowship Church will officiate.  Procession will follow to Roselawn Memorial Park for burial.

For those who desire, memorial contributions in her honor are suggested to the Leukemia Foundation.  Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com.