Mariam Estes

With deep love and sadness, we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Mariam Estes on Thursday, December 18, 2025, in Lansing, Michigan, at the age of 66 years old. She was born on Friday, November 1, 1959, in Tallulah, Louisiana, the daughter of John Estes and Doris Lee Seals Estes.

Mel, as we like to call her, was a caring mother whose kindness, strength, and love shaped the lives of everyone who knew her. She had a special way of making people feel welcome and was always there for her family. She had all the qualities of a loving and caring nurse assistant, which is what her occupation was. Mel lived in East Lansing, ran the Dutch Hills Trailer Park, since she lived there the longest. She was kind to everyone. Mel was always running up to Speedway, where they all called her “Grandma”. If you were at Speedway, short on change, she got you (even though she did not have it).

Mel leaves to cherish her loving memories, daughter, Malika Kahari of Romulus, Michigan; son, Johnny Estes of Muskegon, Michigan; grandchildren, Brion Miller of Fort Campbell, Kentucky, DeQuon Kahari “Lil Daddi” of Lansing, Michigan, Deja Williams of Lansing, Michigan, Jasmine and Jay Estes of Grand Rapids, Michigan; Jealise of Detroit, Michigan; great-grandchildren, Kamarihanna Gipson, Freddie Jones, and Dominique Willis; 4 sisters, Leola Estes, Mary Estes, Mariah Estes-Gilliam, and Marie Estes; 2 brothers, Charles Seals and Anthony Estes; 30 nieces and nephews; many other relatives and friends including her best friend, Wanda Stapleton.

She was proceeded in death by her parents, John and Doris Estes; grandparents, Leola and Chester Belver and John and Mary Estes; 4 sisters and 4 brothers.