Esther, a vibrant spirit, passed away peacefully in her beloved home of Okmulgee at the remarkable age of 92. Proudly Mvskoke, Cherokee, and Catawba, she embraced her heritage with passion. Her educational journey led her to the Seneca, Chilocco, and Sequoyah Indian Boarding Schools. She continued with computer technology and grant writing at Green Country Technology Center.
A devoted genealogist, Esther was fascinated by her family’s history, meticulously keeping records of the Dawes Roll and allotments. One of her most cherished experiences was her adventure to Horseshoe Bend. She said, you can “find out who you really are.”
A fierce advocate, Esther taught the misconception of the Oklahoma Land Run, proclaiming, “It was not free land; it is Indian Land, for which many lives have died for.” She was relentless in her pursuit of answers from the BIA. She wrote many letters to question the injustices of land theft.
Esther had a natural talent for beading and moccasin-making. With dexterous hands, she could bring any design to life, adorning her moccasins with stunning beadwork. Throughout her life, Esther made significant contributions to the Muscogee (Creek) Nation and the Okmulgee Indian Community Center. Esther left a legacy of strength, pride, and creativity that will be cherished by all who knew her.
Esther is preceded in death by her husband, Herman Grona; her brother, Robert Harley; her father, Yarkin Harley; her mother, Mary Lee Gorden; and her paternal grandparents, Sampson Harley and Jennie McGilbra. She is also preceded by her maternal grandparents, William Gorden and Willie Davis.
Honorary Pallbearers are Arthur Harley, Robert Harley, Timothy Harley Jr. and Leon Harley.
She is survived by her son Richard LeRoi Grona and dog Yang of Okmulgee, Jessica Harley of Okmulgee, April Harley of Okmulgee, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, a great host of cousins and friends.
Funeral is Monday the 23rd at 2:00pm at Schaudt Funeral Home in Okmulgee, OK.
