Esther Wallace’s legacy in the City of Anaheim is legendary. She was known as a dedicated and tenacious advocate for a number of causes and organizations, especially those in her West Anaheim neighborhood. She was a founding member of the West Anaheim Neighborhood Development Council (WAND) and served as its chairman for 21 years, leading the organization for its annual BBQ and Christmas tree lighting ceremony. From 1979, until her death, she was a valued member of the Board of Trustees for the Magnolia School District, allowing for her to positively impact the education of our City’s youth.

Esther was extremely involved in civic leadership including serving on numerous boards, commissions, committees and collaboratives at the City and community level. She was involved in the Anaheim Arts Council, the Anaheim Historical Society, the Graffiti and Homeless Task Forces and numerous other organizations. She accomplished all these things, while raising seven children!

During her long tenure with Anaheim Beautiful, she served on the board and most recently was in charge of two of her favorite programs, the Margie Hilgenfeld Tree Memorial and the Thelma Jordan Scholarship programs. Both suited her personality perfectly. Esther was a past president of Anaheim Beautiful and also recipient of the Sally White Award for community service.

Most importantly, Esther was a valued member of our board and a good friend. She had a wonderful way of getting anyone to do something when she set her mind to it. We will miss her in so many ways.