Mother Essie Rene Givens peacefully transitioned to her heavenly home retirement on March 4, 2019.  Essie entered into this life on February 23, 1918, she was gifted to her parents Cleveland and Minni Parks in Bedis TX.  Essie proudly served as the first born child of 13 siblings.

On December 12, 1933 Bishop E.N & Essie Givens untied and became one. God fruitfully blessed this union with 6 children (Edgar, Charles, Shelby, Catherine, Don and Sandra).

As a young couple Edgar and Essie settled into Plainview in 1940.   The couple quickly became engaged in church ministry and pastoring for the black community. Essie had a passion for mentoring the children in her community and keeping them grounded in God.

For 79 years Essie resided in Plainview TX, and enjoyed a very prosperous life.  During this time she broke through barriers and made several impacts in the community and the city of Plainview. Mother Givens was voted the first African American Woman of the year, and the first African American female to birth a child in the Plainview maternity ward, she also helped establish the first daycare for African American children.  Essie was also an avid member of the Hale County Community Investment Committee, "Pink Lady" for Covenant Hospital, RSVP, Black Awareness, and several other various organizations. At the young age of 77 Essie took on one of her biggest assignments from God, she began pastoring her own church (Good Samaritan P.C.G) for 24yrs. Essie undoubtedly lived her life and eulogy.

Essie leaves to cherish in her memory two daughters Sandra Franklin & Catherine Tolson, siblings John Parks & Phyllis Clinton and a host of grandchildren, great grandchildren, great great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and adopted children of the community. She is also proceeded in death by her husband Bishop E.N. Givens, children (Edgar, Charles, Don, and Shelby) and a special grandson Kenneth Tolson.

All memorials and charities can be made to:

Good Samaritan Church

1801 Houston St, Plainview, TX 79072