Ether R. Gaddis, a.k.a Etherine, was born on December 12, 1938 in Mansfield, Louisiana as the only child of Vera May Pineset Rock-more and Eziekel Pineset. Etherine started school in Louisiana and later moved to Dallas.
She graduated from James Madison High School and attended Dallas Community College at El Centro. Her career began at Texas Instruments, advancing to Mobile Oil as a key punch operator, working diligently for many years until shifting her focus and taking a keen interest in education, beginning at the Dallas Independent School District as Secretary to the Counselors, serving in this position until she retired in 1996.
Etherine was an appointed Dallas County Election Judge at John Neely Bryan Elementary School for several years. She served as PTA President for 20 years. She was a fanatic of history, loved to cook, read, do arts and crafts, travel, enjoyed eating and dining at the finest restaurants and was a fashionista.
Etherine was an active member of Antioch Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Dr. Kerry D. Wesley, now under the leadership of Senior Pastor Rev. Chris Wesley. She continued as a faithful member even with her failing health.
Called “Meme” by her grand- kids, she loved her family and loved serving her community. She received the Dallas Urban League’s Mother of the Year Award for her undying commitment to family; always putting the well being of others first.
Ether R. Gaddis was gracious, elegant, independent, and a professional lady. She always presented herself with dignity, respecting others, as a Child of God.
She leaves to her legacy two children, Dianna R. Jackson (Patrick), Samuel Curtis Gaddis; one God Son, Virgil Draper (Capricia); three grandchildren, Akilah P. Jackson, Joshua D. Jackson and Adam T. Gaddis; her grand- dog Daisy and grandcat Gilliam; along with relatives and friends.
Services were held November 18, 2021.
