Esther G. Hayden-Shamblin, 94, passed away peacefully on August 17, 2025. Born on March 29, 1931, in Wilkes, N.C., Esther was the beloved daughter of the late James and Ada (Miller) Mullins.
Esther’s early years were filled with adventure as the family relocated often due to her parents’ work. These travels led her and her seven siblings to settle in Bristol, Tennessee where she graduated from high school.
In 1964, Esther moved her family to Okmulgee in support of her husband’s career in advertising. She worked as a teller at Citizen’s Bank in Okmulgee, and later at Morris State Bank. Her last career stop, before retiring, was as an administrator for the Muscogee Creek Nation’s Housing Authority.
Esther and family settled on what became known as the “Hayden & Sons Ranch,” a place filled with love, laughter and the unmistakable aroma of her legendary biscuits. So renowned were her biscuits that her husband Tom proudly added a subscript on the exit side of the sign that hung over ranch’s entrance gate that read, “Biscuits are always in the oven.”
Feisty and full of life, Esther loved to laugh, dance, and brought joy wherever she went. A true girly girl, she had a lifelong passion for fashion – always well put together with an eye for detail. Her home was a reflection of her many talents, decorated with care and creativity. A gifted crafter, she made beautiful handmade dolls and surrounded herself with things that brought her joy. She collected Frankoma Pottery and Beanie Babies.
Esther was also a talented singer and a faithful member of the church choir wherever March 19, 1931 – August 17, 2025
she chose to worship. Her voice and spirit added beauty to every congregation she joined.
Esther is preceded in death by her parents James and Ada; husbands Howard Hagy, Tom Hayden and John Shamblin; siblings Ella Sue, Raymond, Doris, Yvonne, Francis, Ethie and Bathel; and two great-grandchildren, Hayden Callaway and McKinley McGirt. She is survived by her sons Devon Hagy, Dennis Hagy and wife Barbara, Garry Hagy and Mike Hagy and wife Shelly, and ten grandchildren, 27 great grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren.
She lived life with heart, humor and faith – always ready with a song, a story, or food, a biscuit if you were lucky. Esther will be deeply missed by her family and friends.
Visitation was held from 2-6 p.m. Tuesday, August 19, 2025, at McClendon-Winters Funeral Home Chapel. Funeral services were held Wednesday, August 20, 2025, at McClendon-Winters Funeral Home Chapel, with Pastor Robbie Bowen officiating. Interment will follow at Okmulgee Cemetery. Casket bearers will be Matt Hagy, Wade Carter, Kenny Dalton, JP Hagy, Eli Hagy and JD Hagy.
Arrangements have been entrusted to McClendon-Winters Funeral Home of Okmulgee. Memories, condolences, photos and videos may be shared with the family on Esther’s Tribute Page at www.mcclendon- winters.com.
