Estella Scott, a compassionate and creative educator and community advocate, died March 17, 2026, at age 84.
Born May 6, 1941, in Hearne, Texas, Scott lived a life that reflected creativity, a sparkling sense of humor, and a deep love for family and community. A vibrant spirit and magnetic personality touched countless lives, leaving a legacy that will continue to shine in the hearts of all who knew Scott.
Scott was a woman of many talents and passions. A dedicated social worker and teacher, Scott retired in 2010 after a career at Blackshear Schools in Hearne, Texas. Academic achievements included attendance at Seattle Central Community College and continued studies at Western Washington University, earning a master’s degree in sociology with repeated recognition on the dean’s list. Scott also attended cosmetology school, though mastering finger waves remained an ongoing challenge.
Community involvement was an important part of life. Scott was an active member of the NAACP, a participant in the Civil Rights Movement in Seattle, and a member of the Hearne Beautification Committee. However, true joy was found in a wide range of hobbies. Gardening brought great happiness, with care and attention given to all plants. Sewing and fashion design reflected creativity, while painting and piano playing offered additional outlets for expression. Time spent sitting near a sunny window, watching people pass by, was a simple and cherished pleasure.
Despite many accomplishments, a lasting focus for Scott was instilling integrity in others. Community activism during the 1960s and ’70s in California, Washington and Hearne, Texas, reflected a deep commitment to encouraging intelligence, courage and self-awareness in future generations. A belief in self-love and understanding personal history remained central throughout life and was shared with family and students.
Scott is survived by children Gregory Scott, Sharolyn Scott and Surella DaSilva; grandchildren Iyana DaSilva, Isaiah Scott, Daniel Scott, Damien Scott, Tyree Lee-Scott, Josiah Scott, Rosalynn O’Guinn, Sharanna Horton Smith, Adilia Scott, Delaun DaSilva and Jaquon DaSilva; great-grandchildren Saint Neal, Angel Neal, Island Scott, Rylan Scott, Jackson Scott, Austin Scott, Avia Scott, Edward Smith, Keyana Smith and Ty’Air Hortan; and daughters-in-law Amanda Scott, Sharon Jones Huzzie and Genesha Lee.
Scott was preceded in death by father Daniel Debose; mother Carrie Jackson; former husband Tyree Scott; son Tyree II; and granddaughter Tanya Owens.
“Because of the Lord’s great love, we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning.”
Scott’s love and compassion will continue to inspire each day. Lamentations 3:22-23.
Scott will be interred in a private ceremony at Red Hill Cemetery alongside a mother.
