Chollanna “Choy” Estes
Chollanna “Choy” Pepper Estes, born September 28, 1954, in Glendale, California, passed peacefully into loving heavenly arms, surrounded by her family, on May 19th in Lehi, Utah.
Raised in California, Choy was crowned Miss Humboldt County in 1974 and competed in the Miss California pageant for the Miss America Organization. She didn’t just compete—she connected. Everyone who crossed her path was drawn in by her warmth and unforgettable energy, a gift she carried through every chapter of her life.
Choy is survived by her children: Tony (Kristy) Estes, Summer (Jeremy) Balleck, Richard (Amy) Estes, Jeremy (Angie) Estes, and Darwin (Sarah Jil) Estes; her grandchildren: Isaiah, Jadyn, Jennessa, Keyera (Jordan), Jeffrey, Dallin, Sariah, Spencer, Ashlie, Josef, Alexys, and Noah; and her great-grandchildren: Cedar, Indy, LuElia, Rivie and Swayde . She is also survived by her brother, Gerald “Buddy” Pepper; her sisters, Michelle (John) Stein and Val (Bud) Starr; beloved nieces and nephews; and her former husband of over 30 years and lifelong trusted friend, Dennis Estes.
She was preceded in death by her beloved son, Steven; her parents, Gerald Averil Pepper and Viola Ardene Tyler; and her faithful dogs, Koa and Oro.
Choy was a force—spunky, sassy, strong, and endlessly courageous. She never let fear stop her and had an unmatched ability to see into the soul of every person she met. She truly loved everyone, and in return, everyone loved her. She was known for making people feel instantly seen, safe, and claimed as hers—because they were.
Choy began practicing martial arts with her brother in her early twenties and never looked back. She earned a black belt (Shodan) in Judo from the USJA and a black belt (Nidan) in Dan Zan Ryu Jujitsu from the AJJF. A fierce competitor and devoted teacher, she earned countless victories, including numerous first-place wins, and took third place in the 1985 Senior National Judo Championships. Though she dreamed of Olympic-level competition and was on her way, she chose instead to embrace her greatest dream—motherhood.
She went on to own and operate multiple martial arts dojos, creating inclusive and empowering spaces for children, particularly those with ADHD and behavioral differences. “Sensei Choy” became a beloved figure in the martial arts community—both on and off the mat.
Mom wore every hat imaginable, managing, owning, and operating restaurants for more than 20 years. She was endlessly hardworking and ran multiple successful businesses throughout her life. Her children inherited their tireless work ethic and unfailing professional energy from her example—there was never a job too tough or a challenge too big when Choy was involved. Her drive and determination to get something done were unmatched—even when it was sometimes unwanted. When she felt called to help, she always did—and she always felt the call. Once, she even convinced a stranger to give her the pants they were wearing—just so she could mend a tear right then and there.
That was our mom: persuasive, hilarious, loving, and endlessly generous.
She was a talented Tahitian dancer and even had the incredible experience of dancing in Tahiti. Her grace, rhythm, and vibrant spirit shone just as brightly on stage as they did in every corner of her life.
Of all her accomplishments, the title she cherished most was “Tony and Summer’s Mom.” She was also lovingly known as “Grandma Whipped Cream” and “The Twinkie Queen.” Her quirky, fabulous personality made her the heart of her family and every room she entered.
Choy had an infectious love for the sparkly and the whimsical. She had a habit of buying things she didn’t need at Ross, collected art glass, Japanese Hakata dolls, mugs, seasonal dish towels, charm bracelets, rhinestone anything, Holayashi jewelry, Betsey Johnson earrings, and loved everything Harry Potter. She had a special place in her heart (and stomach) for Rolos, chocolate, treats, and chocolate milkshakes.
Though she battled Alzheimer’s in her final years, Choy fought valiantly to hold on to her memories and her people. A tender mercy came when her body gave out before her mind did, allowing her to know, recognize, and love every member of her family until the very end.
While raising her children in Eureka, California, Choy became a mother to many more—kids who needed food, safety, love, and a fierce mama bear. She welcomed them with open arms and an open heart. They remain hers to this day.
It’s impossible to fully capture the magic of our mother in words. But if you ever met her, you carry a piece of that magic with you. Her sparkle lives on in every person she ever held, helped, healed, and hugged.
Though Choy wasn’t traditional, she was all about people and connection. In that spirit, services will be held to honor her life and invite all who knew and loved her to join.
An Evening Viewing will be held on Tuesday, May 27, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., and again on Wednesday, May 28, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Utah Valley Mortuary, 1966 W 700 N, Lindon, Utah, which will be followed by a brief Graveside Service at 1:00 p.m. at Lehi City Cemetery.
Immediately following, at 2:00 p.m., we will gather for a true Choy Celebration of Life at the Lehi Senior Center, 123 N Center St., Lehi, Utah complete with Tahitian dancers, judo demonstrations, food, memory sharing, treats, and all of Mom’s favorite things. As with everything Choy did—everyone is included. We would be honored to spend that time with you and hear your “Choy stories.”
We love you most, Mom.