Essie M. King

Essie Mae King, 85, of Gary, Indiana, went home to rest peacefully with her Heavenly Father on November 2, 2025. She was born on May 12, 1940, to J.D. Herron and Everlean Herron in Cleveland, Mississippi.
Essie was preceded in death by her parents and five of her beloved children: daughter Rose J. Herron, and sons Robert E. King, John W. King Jr., Michael R. King, Andre L. King and Willie E. King.
She is survived by her daughters Jessica R. Herron, Addie King-Smith, Mary (John) Austin, Patricia (Windell) Dowe, and Nadine King; her special grandson who was with her daily, Corey L. King; and a host of siblings, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who loved her dearly.
Essie was a woman of unwavering faith whose love for God guided her every step. She confessed her love for Christ and remained steadfast in her devotion throughout her life. Her church was her second home, and she deeply loved her pastor and church family. Every first Sunday, Essie could be counted on to stand and share a heartfelt testimony, always giving honor and praise to God for His goodness, grace, and mercy. Her words were powerful, sincere, and often left the congregation encouraged and uplifted.
Her relationship with God was deeply personal. She spoke to Him daily through prayer, trusted His plan in all things, and gave Him glory in every season of life. She lived her faith openly and joyfully, often reminding others that "God will make a way" and "He may not come when you want Him, but He's always on time." One of her favorite scriptures was James 5:16, which says, "The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much." Essie believed deeply in the power of prayer and was known for always having a scripture to comfort or encourage anyone who was going through something. Her words of encouragement and wisdom were always rooted in the Word of God. Whenever someone faced trials, she would simply smile and say, "Keep living."
Beyond her faith, Essie enjoyed the simple blessings of life. She loved to go, whether to church, the grocery store, or simply out in the community. She especially loved to ride the bus through the City of Gary, often with no specific destination, just enjoying being out and about. She loved to see everyone daily on the bus, greeting familiar faces and striking up conversations that brightened her day and the days of others. Her favorite stops included the Gary Bus Station, Strack & Van Til, White Castle in Gary, and her Saturday rides to Hammond. She also loved to garden, nurturing collard greens, okra, green and red tomatoes, and crowder peas, each harvest reminding her of God's provision.
Essie was a straight shooter—honest, wise, and full of discernment. She believed in telling the truth with love and lived by firm principles rooted in faith and experience. Her words carried meaning, her laughter carried warmth, and her lessons carried wisdom. She was a teacher of life, a woman of conviction, and a living example of God's grace.
Essie Mae King will be remembered for her kind heart, her powerful testimonies, her words of wisdom, and her unwavering faith in God. She lived her life as a shining example of His love, leaving behind a legacy of prayer, strength, and devotion that will continue to inspire generations to come.
All Services Friday, November 14, 2025 Wake 9:30 a.m., followed by the Homegoing Service at 11:00 a.m. at Peter's Rock M.B. Church, 1725 E. 21st Ave., Gary, Indiana 46407. Pastor Shawn Vaughn will officiate. Essie's final resting place will be in Cleveland, Mississippi. Professional Services Rendered by Powell Coleman Funeral Home.

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