ESTHER MARIE VAGNOZZI DOTTS

Esther Marie Vagnozzi Dotts, 83, of Las Vegas, formerly of Follansbee, WV, passed away peacefully on September 1, 2025, after a courageous journey with Alzheimer’s disease. Born October 31, 1941, in Follansbee, she was the daughter of the late Frank and Catherine (Katy) Vagnozzi. Esther graduated with the St. Anthony’s High School Class of 1959, where she was an honor student, active in every activity, and remembered for her vibrant personality and mischievous smile. Everyone on Virginia Avenue knew her warm presence– whether she was chatting with neighbors on porches or laughing with her best friend, Vickie Sciaretti. She left a lasting mark on her classmates, teachers, and lifelong friends, who recall that “no one could avoid her friendly conver- sations.” Esther began her career at Weirton Savings and Loan before moving to California in 1963. She later settled in Las Vegas, where she rose to Senior Vice President of Wells Fargo Bank’s Gaming Division. She was admired as a mentor and trailblazer, showing by example how women could thrive in banking. She also gave generously of her time, especially through her years of involvement with Opportunity Village. Esther enjoyed traveling with her dear friends Pam, Andrea, and Fr. Mike, often on cruises, where the company meant more to her than the destination. Above all, she cherished family time, especially with her adored grandson, Brent.
She is survived by her brother Joseph (Dreama) Vagnozzi of Follansbee, WV; sister Luanne (Rick) Carroll of Winterville, OH; and grandson Brent Dotts of Texas. She will be dearly missed by nieces, nephews, cousins, and many lifelong friends. In addition to her parents, Esther was preceded in death by her husband Robert, her beloved young son John, and her brother Anthony. Friends may call Wednesday, September 17, 2025, from 4-6 p.m. at Palm Eastern Mortuary, Las Vegas, and again Thursday at 10:15 to the time of Mass at 11:00 am at Christ the King Church. The family extends heartfelt thanks to her devoted friend Pam Benson for her constant love and care, to Eva Grajewski and her godson Adam Markman for never letting Esther feel forgotten, and to Hospice Services of Nevada for their compassionate support.
Donations may be made to Opportunity Village via their website in Esther’s honor. Esther will be remembered for her smile, her laughter, and her gift of making everyone feel like family. Though her passing brings sorrow, she would want those who knew her to remember the joy she carried into every room.