(CMR) Leola Estherleen Ebanks born April 9, 1946, passed about peacefully this morning at 10:20 am at her brother's, Dr. Tomlinson, home in Spotts, Grand Cayman after battling amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) for almost five years. She was born in Cayman Brac.
She was the six child of the late Chrissie Bell Tomlinson and Anthony (Tony) Tomlinson – who is best known for starting the Tomlinson Furniture store.
Mrs. Esther as she was affectionately known will be fondly remembered for her business acumen and a keen sense of fashion. She owned her own furniture and lighting store and eventually owned a clothing store also. Her friends remember her as a person who loved her country.
Mrs. Esther set several records in the Cayman Islands when she married the late Dalmain Ebanks. Ebanks was a boxing legend and MLA as well. They were members of the legislative assembly when they got married making them the first and only married couple to date to be serving members at the same time. Their son, Thone was also born during that time – setting another record.
Elected as the third female member of the legislative assembly she served from 1976-1980 for the district of West Bay as part of the famous Unity Team along with Haig Bodden and Thomas Jefferson. She remained involved in politics throughout her life fighting for issues she felt passionate about. She was a staunch supporter of the PPM government.
In October 2008 she attended the opening of the country's boxing gym named in her late husband's honor. Ebanks passed away several years prior to tat at age 83.
Mrs. Esther is survived by her children: Tommy, Tania,Tessa, Todd, Timmy, Thone, Travis. Her sister: Carmela (Dolly), Shirley, Karen, Jacqui. Her brothers: Gurwin, Dr. Steve Tomlinson, and 14 grandchildren along with a host of nephews, nieces, and other relatives and friends.
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