Esther L. Harjo

Services for Esther L. Harjo, 95, Lawrence will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, December 30, 2024 at Lawrence Indian United Methodist Church in Lawrence.  Burial will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery in Lawrence.  The family will greet friends from 6-8 p.m. on Sunday, December 29, 2024 at Lawrence Indian United Methodist Church.  Esther passed away on December 21, 2024 at LMH.

Esther was born on March 17, 1929 in Eufaula, Oklahoma the daughter of James and Leah Barnett Colbert.

She worked as a Printing Instructor in the Printing Department at Haskell University for 38 years.

She loved her family and spending time with her granddaughters, she was devoted to her church, spending time preparing songs for worship and playing the piano.  She spent time reading the Bible and praying.  In her earlier years she enjoyed playing softball and bowling.  She was an avid KC Chiefs and OU Football fan.

She married Scotty Harjo on January 31, 1962, in Lawrence, KS.  He preceded her in death on February 22, 2006.

Survivors include her son, John Scott Harjo, Lawrence; three granddaughters, Talima, Angelina and Layla; great-granddaughter, Nebula; two sisters, Josephine Shanandore and Claudette Harjo and a host of nieces and nephews, other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Scotty, her siblings Joe, Charlie, Rudolph, Elizabeth, Madella; nieces and nephews, Rick, Michael, Belvin, Jimmy, Vonda, LeaJean, Lillie and Phyllis.

Memorial contributions may be made in Esther’s name payable to Lawrence Indian United Methodist Church – Children’s Classroom addition and may be sent in care of Warren-McElwain Mortuary, 120 W. 13th Street, Lawrence, KS 66044.

For more information or to post a condolence go to warrenmcelwain.com.

10 Condolences

  1. Eddie Paul on December 23, 2024 at 8:49 pm

    My condolences to Esther Harjo family. She was a strong Mvskoke Woman. She took good care of me and a lot of my family and a lot from Eastern Band of Cherokee Reservation in Cherokee, NC when they went to Haskell. She will be greatly missed. Rest in Peace. Your family will be in my thoughts and prayers



  2. Gary GIRTY on December 24, 2024 at 4:24 pm

    GARY GIRTY, Condolences to the Esther Harjo Family. Esther was a long time friend , co-worker and confidant to my parents, Andy and Frances Girty during their working and retirement years. Esther worked with Andy for many years at the Haskell Institute and Haskell Indian Junior College Printing Department. Esther worked with Frances in the Lawrence Indian Indian Methodist Church for several years. Best wishes to John Scott Harjo and family.



  3. Sam and Carol Morris on December 26, 2024 at 2:36 pm

    We love the Harjo family. We were thankful for Esters talents, as she played the piano for Haskell Mission. She was such a a good cook and hostess, with open arms. John Scott , we will pray for your family during this difficult time. Love to all, Sam and Carol Morris



  4. The Ramos Family on December 26, 2024 at 2:37 pm

    My brother John Scott Harjo and family, I am sorry for your loss of Esther, but happy to know she lived a long life and left so many wonderful memories. Please accept my condolences and may God Bless and comfort you all during these times.



  5. Scott Holzmeister on December 26, 2024 at 5:00 pm

    John Scott . sorry to hear of your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time..



  6. Robin (Sieber) Starling on December 28, 2024 at 8:03 am

    Sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.



  7. Julia Young on December 29, 2024 at 10:30 am

    John & family so sorry for the loss of your Mom. I heard a lot over the years from Daddy (John Young) about how Esther ran the printing department. Our family wants to send our heartfelt condolences to you and your family. If there is anything you ever need please let me know.



  8. Shanda Torneden on December 30, 2024 at 12:15 pm

    John and family, thoughts and prayers go out to you all. May your cherished memories of your mom and grandmother bring you peace.



  9. John and Tracie Morris on December 30, 2024 at 2:47 pm

    Our continued prayers for you, John Scott and your family. Praying for comfort and peace as you trust in God’s promises of being reunited one day to spend eternity with our loved ones and our Savior Jesus Christ for eternity! Esther was an example of service, love and commitment to others and the Lord.
    Love you all!



  10. Rose Mary Sieber (Maggie) on January 5, 2025 at 2:53 pm

    John and family, sorry to hear of your loss. We loss Bob 3 1/ yrs ago. he enjoyed your family.



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