Esther Kathryn Knapp

reputation of being hardworking, loyal, and dependable. If she said she was going to do it or said she was going to be there, nothing was going to stop her (not even not having a driver’s license). She always found a way. While doing so, she never complained but was always willing to do what was asked of her. Sister Esther was a kind soul with a beautiful spirit and smile that could light up any room and warm any heart. Under the leadership of Bishop Batten, who purchased the first organ for Mt. Zion Holy Church. Sister Esther, through the anointing of the Holy Spirit, matured and mastered playing the Organ to the glory and honor of God for several choirs, including the Mt. Zion Youth Choir, Mass Choir, Batten Ensemble, and Adult Choir up until the age of 87 when her health began to decline. Sister Esther also served as the Organist for the original Mid Atlantic District Choir. Notably, her favorite songs were “Amazing Grace” and “How Great Thou Art. Not only did Mother Esther serve Mt. Zion Holy Church through the ministry of music for over 70 years,” she also taught Sunday School and Vacation Bible School. She loved to serve, in whatever capacity needed, most importantly she loved God. Mother Esther’s unwavering commitment to her relationship with God is a testament to her character and legacy. Those who knew Mother Esther will attest that she was A woman of many hats or should we say a woman WITH many hats. Mother Esther loved her hats and suits. Talk about coordination, from her head to her toes…literally. She loved to compare hat notes and shopping tips with her good friend Mother Dorothy Cartwright and Niece Elder Rosemary Waples. , who she may have “tricked” into a hat or three. She was preceded in death by her parents Jacob and Virginia Brittingham, ten (10 siblings, son Lester Knapp and brother-in-law, Deacon George Knapp. She leaves to cherish her children Chester B. Knapp, III of Camden, DE, Helena Knapp of Milton, DE, Thomas Knapp (Georgeana) of Milton, DE, Charles Knapp (Alfreda) of Seaford, DE, Jonathan Knapp (Adrienne) of Philadelphia, PA, Arthur Knapp (Setearria) of Frederica, DE, George Knapp (Katrinka) of Houston, TX, Edna Peterson of Milton, DE and a special daughter-in-law Althea Knapp of Bordentown, NJ; her siblings; Presiding Prelate of MSHCA, Pastor, and sister, Bishop Grace Ruth Batten and brother Minister James Brittingham, both of Milton, DE; 20 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren, 2 great-great grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Esther Kathryn Knapp

August 5, 1937 - December 31, 2025