Holland Hall crash victims were kind souls, successful students

By John Dobberstein, Editor

Funeral arrangements have been announced for the two Holland Hall students who were tragically killed in a car accident earlier this month. 

Mollie Buffington, 17, and Claire Esmond, 16, lost their lives on Feb. 13 when the Tesla their schoolmate was driving exited the northbound lanes on Riverside Drive, just north of 91st Street, hit an embankment and fell into Joe Creek. 

The driver was rushed to a hospital in critical condition but was expected to survive, while her two passengers were pronounced dead. The Tulsa Police Department is investigating the cause of accident.

MOLLIE BUFFINGTON: A public visitation will be held from 6:00 PM to 8 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 24, 2025, at Schaudt’s Tulsa Funeral Service Chapel. A celebration of life will take place at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2025, at the Holland Hall Walter Arts Center, 5666 E. 81st Street, Tulsa, OK 74137, with Chaplain Christy Utter officiating. A reception will immediately follow at the Tandy Dining Hall.

In lieu of flowers the family requests memorial donations to be made in Mollie’s memory to Holland Hall, 5666 E. 81st Street, Tulsa, OK 74137.

CLAIRE ESMOND: Memorial services will be Saturday, March 1, 2025, at Battle Creek Church-Midtown, 3817 S Lewis Ave, Tulsa, at 1 p.m. Instead of flowers, the family would appreciate you making a memorial donation to honor Claire’s life to: New Life Ranch.

‘A bright light’

The family of both girls posted emotional tributes this week in announcing services. The daughter of Mark and Toni Buffington, Mollie was affectionately known to her family and friends as “M”, “Molls”, or “Moo” and she was no stranger to  adversity, as her mother Karen died of cancer when Mollie was just 81/2. 

Mollie and Toni were two “peas in a pod” and enjoyed time together baking, shopping, enjoying beach time or girl talk. Toni has often remarked that it has been an honor of a lifetime to love and be loved by Mollie, the family said. 

While often quiet and reserved at times, Mollie was a true “social butterfly” with her friends. “She constantly kept us on our toes and laughing with her dry sense of humor, matter-of-fact honesty, and a heart that radiated such incredible kindness. She was a bright light in every room, never speaking a bad word about anyone. Her presence was one of love, warmth, generosity, consideration, and unwavering loyalty.

“Her upbeat attitude lifted and inspired all of those around her. Mollie looked forward to learning among her friends and loved the Holland Hall community. She was a proud member of the field hockey team and was looking forward to playing varsity her senior year.”

Among her other interests, Mollie found fulfillment in volunteering at The Common Good (The Hub) and the Mabee Red Center for underprivileged children. Though a life long member of Life Church, Mollie joined the youth group at Battle Creek Church in Midtown the start of her Junior year where she would also assist with the K1 kids during Sunday service.

‘Wonderful friend, student, teammate’

Esmond’s parents, Mike and Mandy, penned a heartfelt tribute to their daughter.

“Your confidence, sense of humor, and light heart attracted friends and brightened every space you occupied,” they wrote. “Your love and kindness transformed the lives of everyone you encountered. You were always forgiving and chose to see the best in people. You set an example that we, and everyone else you touched, will strive to live up to.”

They also wrote they were inspired by the way their daughter sought out and built a relationship with God, discovering and growing her faith New Life Ranch, where she developed an ability to lead and minister to others. The parents have decided to start a scholarship fund in Their daughter’s  name at New Life Ranch.

“You were a wonderful friend, student, and teammate. Holland Hall is crushed. We’re so happy you went to school where you could be challenged, supported, and had the freedom to be one hundred percent yourself,” her parents said. 

Claire was involved in many extracurricular activities, including field hockey, lacrosse, Student Council, FCA, tennis, National Charity League and tutoring.

“We were so blessed to have you for the short time we did. While there is nothing we wouldn’t give for another day with you here, we know we’ll have to wait to be reunited,” they wrote.