Esther Walker (October 18, 1894 – July 26, 1943) was a popular American musical comedy performer in the 1920’s.
Born Esther Thomas in Louisville, Kentucky. She had three sisters and four brothers. As she began her stage career, Esther Thomas adopted the stage name of Esther Walker. In 1919 Esther appeared on Broadway at the Winter Garden Theatre in the production of "Monte Cristo, Jr.". And later in the same year she could be found at the 44th Street Theatre in the short-lived production of "Hello, Alexander" with songs by composer Jean Schwartz.
Esther Walker’s short recording career ran from 1919-1920 and 1925-1927 producing some 32 sides on Victor and Brunswick. The height of her recording success was probably in 1926 when she recorded the Brunswick sides "Ya Gotta Know How To Love" and "As Long As I Have You And You Have Me".
She married famous Texan movie theater owner Karl Hoblitzelle. Mr. Hoblitzelle, born in Missouri, was an event manager at the St. Louis World’s Fair. He later moved to Dallas and started a successful chain of vaudeville houses and movie theaters. Esther and Karl made their home in Dallas, Texas.
In 1942 Karl and Esther chartered a philanthropic foundation - the "Hoblitzelle Foundation" which provided funds to schools, hospitals, agriculture, and other interests. The foundation still thrives today.
Esther was very involved in civic organizations such as the USO. The American Red Cross and the Junior league. She was also involved with many social clubs including the Dalls Garden Club, The Dallas Country Club and remained active in local theatre productions..
She died of pancreatic cancer in Dallas on July 26, 1943 at the age of 48 and left the bulk of her estate to Hobliyzelle Foundation.
(Edited from Wikipedia & Dawning Genealogy)