Apostle Essie Kate Lackey was born Dec. 7, 1960 to the union of the late Mr. & Mrs. Matt (Essie Della Thomas) Cole, Sr.

She wed James H. Lackey March 12, 1983. Apostle Essie Kate Lackey was an amazing woman of God, to know her was to love her. She changed countless lives, she was a fierce woman of God to whom many attributed finding their walk with God. Essie Kate was our everything, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, friend, confidant, prayer warrior, our shoulder and listening ear. She’s someone we found treasure in the pearls. Not only did she give us wisdom, imparted life in us. She is a dynasty of God’s grace. 

Essie Kate Lackey was preceded in death by her loving parents, Mr. & Mrs. Matt (Essie Della Thomas) Cole, Sr.; two brothers, Mr. Johnny Seal Cole and Mr. Matthew Cole, Jr.; one beloved grandchild, Roman Hayes; one beloved nephew, Mr. Alquavisa M. Cole. 

She leaves to remember her, a loving husband of 36years, Mr. James H. Lackey two loving daughters, Ms. Veronica Heard and Ms. Cassandra Lackey; nine grandchildren; two sisters, Mr. & Mrs. Gregory (Betty) Smith and Mr. & Mrs. Alvin (Gale) Anderson and a host of loving nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.  

A funeral service was held at 1 p.m. Saturday, April 6 at Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church with the Rev. Shelton Brown and the Rev. Gerald Terrell officiating. 

Friends are Earthly blessings, responding and caring in moments of despair. Our family will forever be grateful for your friendship expressed in so many ways during the passing of our loved one. Your prayers, visits, calls, flowers, cards and other acts of love are sources of strength and consolation. Thank You, May God grant all of you his richest blessings.