Esther Talata Butic was born on December 16, 1938, in Tabuk, Kalinga, Philippines, to Jose Talata and Isabel Price, both teachers. Her father died when she was 2, the third of 4 siblings. From an early age, Esther's life was shaped by her devoted mother and education under the Sisters of the CICM order who instilled in her a deep devotion to the Catholic faith. This strong foundation became a cornerstone of her identity, guiding her throughout her life.

After completing high school, Esther earned a Secretarial degree in St. Mary's College in Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya and worked her way through further studies. At the University of Santo Tomas in Manila, she earned a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education degree in 1965. She began her teaching career at a Catholic school in the suburbs, then in a public school in Tondo, Manila where her dedication endeared her to the children and their parents in that inner city.

In pursuit of broader horizons, Esther immigrated to San Francisco, California in 1971. Her friendly and compassionate nature naturally drew her into the heart of the San Francisco Filipino community. She emerged as a respected social worker and community leader. In 1974, Esther met the love of her life, Art Butic, in a community gathering where she was an officer of the San Francisco Filipino Association. They married later that year, beginning a partnership that spanned five decades. Together, they raised three children: Arthur Jr., Napoleon, and Isabel. She poured her heart into nurturing her children and being a dutiful wife. A significant part of Esther's life was devoted to caring for her eldest child, Arthur Jr., who was born with autism during a time when understanding and resources for the condition were scarce.

Esther enjoyed gardening raising vegetables and fruits with the flowers in her flower beds. Later in life, she liked doing crossword puzzles and word searches and watching Wheel of Fortune. She loved attending church at St. Maximillian Kolbe and going on pilgrimages.

Esther's legacy is one of faith, service, and unconditional love. She is survived by her husband, Art Butic and children, Arthur Jr., Napoleon, and Isabel. Her memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.