Heather Monique Estes, age 31, a 23-year resident of Front Royal, VA, died on Friday. 12 June 2026. She was born in the town of Harrogate in North Yorkshire, England on 27 January 1995 to Michael and Tina Estes. She was a graduate of Skyline High School in Warren County, Virginia, and attended Richmond's Virginia Commonwealth University.

Heather spent many of her adult years employed in the food preparation industry. One of her proudest achievements and challenges was her work as part of a prestigious team at Virginia's only Michelin 3-star restaurant. She translated her outstanding skills into a number of tantalizing culinary inventions for family and friends. Heather also had a natural talent for photography. She had an excellent eye for composition, light, and contrast, and was able to visualize perspective and incorporate attention to detail to capture the mood of her subjects in any environment.

Those who knew Heather knew someone with an incredibly big heart. If someone needed help, she rarely hesitated to offer it, often putting others before herself. She cared deeply about justice and fairness and believed everyone deserved compassion and dignity. She was passionate about advocating for others and sought to make the world a kinder place in whatever ways she could. She was always searching, learning, and working to become the best version of herself. Of all the roles she cherished, none was more important to her than being a mother. Her love for her son was immeasurable and being his mom was one of the greatest joys of her life.

Heather is survived by her parents: Michael William Estes and Tina Marie Schmidt Estes of Louisa, VA; son: Jamison Ray Estes of Louisa, VA; sister Arielle Hurst of Crozet, VA; brothers Spencer Estes of Palm Bay, FL and Matthew Estes of Front Royal, VA; aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and numerous friends.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Feed More in Heather's memory. Heather loved feeding family and friends, and was always creating something delicious ion the kitchen. We hope that supporting Feed More will help share that same care with others in the community. For more information, please visit their website at https://feedmore.org

Private family services were held.