Joyce Bert Hester

Bert was born August 3, 1925, in Miles, Texas. He attended Texas Tech University in Lubbock, Texas where he met his wife, Barbara whom he married in 1948. He graduated with a degree in Physical Education in 1950. After graduation, he commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the United States Air Force and began training as a Navigator. After completing a combat tour of duty in Korea, he entered pilot training and later flew the B-57 and KC-135. Bert completed a second combat tour in Vietnam, where he was awarded the Air Force’s Distinguished Flying Cross for actions above North Vietnam. Bert retired from the Air Force in 1971 and became a successful small business owner in Central Florida. In the late 1980s, Bert retired from his business and spent his spare time golfing, woodworking, and traveling with Barbara. They fell in love with the mountains of North Carolina and eventually moved full time to Spruce Pine where he and Barbara lived very happily for many years. An animal lover, Bert was known for spoiling his beloved dogs AJ and Woody. Most of all, he enjoyed spending time with his wife, Barbara, their three children and their families. Known as Papa Bert to his great-grandchildren he never missed an opportunity to infuse a situation with humor. He loved joking with his family and friends and will be remembered for his quick wit and ability to get a smile out of anyone, and for his big heart and generous nature.

Survivors include his three children, Dinah Kierstead, Michael Hester, both of Orlando, Florida; and Eva Lin, of Rockville, MD; eight grandchildren and three great grandchildren. Bert was preceded in death by Barbara, his wife of 59 years. He was dearly loved and will be greatly missed by all.

Donations can be made in his honor at Hope for Warriors, www.hopeforthewarriors.org, 1335 Western Blvd., Suite E, PMB 48, Jacksonville, NC, 28546.