Mrs. Esther Louise Bishop-Files

Esther "Lola" Bishop-Files: Born Esther Louise Morgan on June 17, 1947 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma to parents Margaret and Jeremiah Morgan who preceded her in death. She was the second of six children born to this union. She accepted Christ at an early age and later became a member of Cass Community Methodist Church. Esther was raised in Detroit by way of the Brewster Projects alongside of some of Motown's greats like Dianna Ross and Mary Wilson. She attended and graduated from Northern High School in 1965, received an Associate’s Degree in Geriatrics from Wayne County Community College and a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from Madonna University. She was an Alumni of Wayne State University and also obtained a certificate of completion in Medical Assisting and Medicare and Medicaid. In 1968, she married Harold Bolton (deceased). In 1975, she met and fell in love with Albert Lee Bishop, a bel-esprit whom before departing this earth bestowed a son upon her and to this union in 1977 Terrell Albert Bishop the youngest of his four children (Marlene, Ron and Chris) was born. In 1982, she met "Doc" Ruel Files (deceased) and they married in 1991 where she was embraced and loved by his children. Affectionately known as "Lola," she never met a stranger. This social butterfly loved striking up conversations, going to the movies, and dancing. She was always a step ahead of fashion and admired for her style of dress and fancy hair styles. She was adamant about education and had a very successful career working in multiple agencies, including the State of Michigan. She ultimately retired from Cass Community Social Services where she thought of her work not as a job but as a family. This was true of her colleague and boss, Reverend Faith Fowler who played an invaluable role in her life. “Lola loved the kids!” She would round up as many as eight kids, pack them in her Ford Taurus and take them to church, the movies, birthday parties and kiddie discos. She believed in not only living life but enjoying life to the fullest. She lived by the “whatever it takes” motto… She joined karate with the kids, took a job with her niece and started classes at a community college with her mother, all to encourage and support them. Always supportive, encouraging and generous, she would go out of her way to help any and everyone. She was truly a giver! She was always excited for others' endeavors. She was a cheerleader for many, often bragging of their accomplishments to others. Lola was very proud of her loved ones and enjoyed spending time with her many families. Everyone looked forward to her showing up to the event ‘late as usual’ but she lit up the room and made the party. She knew all of the latest dances and her excitable energy exuded every room she entered. Lola's love and dedication to her son along with her nieces, nephews and grandchildren, was everlasting. She was a second mother to Michael and David Muhammad and Shelley and Laurence Pickens and her "honorary daughter," the mother of her grandchidlren, LaTanya Garrett whose mothers are already in their final resting place. Lola made her transition on Sunday, June 17, 2018. Her parents, husbands and sister Wanda and stepson Chris Bishop preceded her in death.

Mrs. Esther Louise Bishop-Files

June 17, 1947 - June 18, 2018