Esther E. Messina

Esther Messina, 87, passed away on August 14, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Esther was a beloved wife, mother, nonna, sister, aunt, and friend. She will be remembered for her warmth, her generous heart, and the many ways she made those around her feel cared for and welcome.

Esther shared nearly 53 years of marriage with her beloved husband, Giuseppe (Joe) Messina, who preceded her in death in 2018. Together, they built a life centered on family, their Italian heritage, and the traditions they passed down to their children and grandchildren.

She had a special gift for bringing people together through food. She loved to cook Italian dishes and was happiest in the kitchen, preparing homemade meals and treats for her family and friends. She baked batch after batch of Italian biscotti, focaccia, banana bread, and zucchini bread, and lovingly jarred her own tomato sauce and grape jelly. Among the family’s favorites was her homemade tiramisu, a dessert she made especially well. Her kitchen was a place of warmth and hospitality. No one ever left her home empty-handed; she always made sure there was something to take along as a reminder of her love.

Her greatest joy was her family, especially her grandchildren. She loved babysitting them and spending time together, creating moments they will carry with them forever. She loved bringing her grandchildren to the clubhouse to swim in the pool, where days were filled with laughter and fun. She also shared her Italian heritage by teaching several of her grandchildren how to speak and write Italian, giving them a lasting connection to their family roots. She affectionately called her granddaughters “Bella Mia,” a name they will always treasure.

Esther enjoyed crafts and the simple pleasures of life. She loved the color lilac purple and could often be found taking a walk around the neighborhood or browsing through a store simply to get out of the house and enjoy her surroundings. She enjoyed being active, visiting with others, and spending time with family and friends.

Her faith was an important part of her life. She was an active member of her church and generously gave her time to help others, including volunteering at church soup suppers. Her commitment to her church reflected the importance of faith, community, and service throughout her life.

Esther is survived by her sons, Paul (Marilyn), Dominic (Deborah), and Ross (Marcia); her daughter, Rosemary Sobota (Mark); and her grandchildren, Joseph (Theresa), Nicholas, Alyssa and her fiancé Brian, Anthony and his fiancée Mary, Sydney, Madison, Morgan, and Andrew. She was a dear aunt to many nieces and nephews, each of whom held a special place in her heart.

She leaves behind a legacy of cherished family traditions, Italian heritage, faith, generosity, and love. The lessons she taught, the traditions she created, and the countless ways she cared for her family will remain with them for generations. Though Esther will be deeply missed, her warmth, her faith, and the love she so freely gave will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Family and friends are invited to honor and celebrate Esther’s life during a visitation on Sunday, August 16, 2026, from 3:00–8:00 p.m. at Salerno Rosedale Chapels in Roselle, Illinois.