Myrtle Hill Estes | Sept. 8, 1934-Sept. 23, 2020

Myrtle Hill Isenhour Estes

Born: Sept. 8, 1934 Johnston, NC
Died: Sept. 23, 2020 Clayton, NC
Married: Ralph Leroy Isenhour on June 8, 1957, in Dillon, SC
Married: Amos Estes on Oct. 20, 1995, in Wilson, NC

Myrtle Alene Hill led a life marked by resilience, love, and family, rooted in her North Carolina upbringing. Through her two marriages, she built a loving home, raised children, and found companionship that enriched her journey.

Early Life and Education

Myrtle Alene Hill was born on September 8, 1934, in Johnston County, North Carolina, the oldest child of Arthur and Bertha Crocker Hill.

Her early education began at Rockridge Elementary School. When her father, a railroad section foreman, moved the family for his work, Myrtle's schooling continued in Lucama, Kenly, Glendale, and back to Rockridge. This period posed challenges for her father, who had a limited education, but her mother ably assisted him with filling out time cards. Myrtle briefly attended Stancil's Chapel for just eleven days before transferring to Glendale School, a decision prompted by issues her younger sister Mildred experienced with a teacher. Although Myrtle initially left school before graduating, she later completed her education.

She found her first job at a shirt factory in Clayton, where she worked diligently making T-shirts and briefs.

Marriage to Ralph Leroy Isenhour

It was at the shirt factory that Myrtle met Ralph Leroy Isenhour. Ralph, born on August 4, 1933, was the son of the factory superintendent, Mr. Lute Isenhour. He was home on leave from his military service when he noticed Myrtle and was instantly smitten. After learning where she lived from a coworker, he soon visited her home. Charming and handsome, Ralph captivated Myrtle with his attentiveness and thoughtful gifts of jewelry.

After seeking and receiving permission from Myrtle's parents, Ralph and Myrtle traveled to Dillon, South Carolina, a common destination for quick marriages, where they were wed on June 8, 1957. A friend from work drove them.

Together, Ralph and Myrtle built a beautiful home in Clayton, creating a personal oasis by planting an English walnut tree and an apple tree in their yard. They were blessed with two sons: Larry Keith, born on April 2, 1958, and Ronnie Lee, born on December 14, 1971.

Ralph passed away at home on June 5, 1994, at the age of 60, and is buried in the Mausoleum at Pinecrest Memorial Gardens in Clayton, Johnston County, North Carolina.

Marriage to Amos Alton Estes

Following Ralph's passing, Myrtle found love again. In April 1995, she began dating Amos Alton Estes, and they were married on October 20, 1995. Amos, whose first wife, Cassie Lee Estes, had died in 1993 after 47 years of marriage, received Myrtle's phone number from a church friend and felt a strong pull to call her.

Amos Alton Estes was born on November 1, 1925, in Hackleburg, Alabama, the son of John Henry and Doshie Holt Estes. He was a proud veteran of the U.S. Navy during World War II. His professional life included serving as a retired supervisor with the N.C. Research Farm on Lake Wheeler Road and retiring as a captain with the Swift Creek Fire Department. Amos was also a dedicated deacon at his Baptist church. From his first marriage to Cassie Lee, he had children: Debbie Bledsoe, Robert Earl Estes (who died in 1998), Harold Ray Estes (who died in 2019), and Larry Estes.

Myrtle and Amos were married by a Justice of the Peace at the Wilson Courthouse. Together, they embraced their golden years with a new Cadillac and a shared passion for travel, embarking on their adventures in June 1996. During this time, Myrtle's innate talent for style shone through; she enjoyed helping other women enhance their appearance with new hairstyles and makeup.

Amos passed away on June 29, 2005, in Middlesex, North Carolina, at the age of 79. He is buried beside his first wife, Cassie, at Montlawn Memorial Park in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Myrtle Alene Hill continued to live a full life, surrounded by her family. She passed away on September 23, 2020, in Clayton, North Carolina, at the age of 86. Her life was a testament to enduring love, dedication to family, and a spirited approach to life's many chapters.