Douglas Keith Hester

Douglas Keith Hester, 67, of Knoxville, TN, beloved husband, father grandfather, and brother passed away Sunday, July 17, 2022. Born in Harriman, he was the son of the late Douglas and Jackie Hester of Kingston. Keith was a retired Knox County Sheriff’s deputy with 30 plus years of service. He was also a member of Knox County Reserves and Honor Guard, a resident of Karns community for 34 years and a member of Beaver Ridge United Methodist Church. A big “teddy bear” of a man, who friends called “Big Country,” Keith had always had a quick smile and a big laugh. He loved being outside walking with his wife of 42 years, Valerie Ann Hester (nee Blankenship) and his dog Lady. He was a good and loving dad to his three daughters who thought he made the best “daddy cakes” (pancakes) when they were little. He was a doting papaw to seven grandchildren and the best kind of big brother to his sister Cindy. Keith was the “go to” guy who would literally drop everything to be there if his family or friends needed help. He loved his family’s annual beach trip, Western TV shows, war history and building complex Lego models. Keith is survived by his wife, Valerie of Knoxville; daughters Jessica Burnett (Travis) of Sweetwater, TN; Rachel and Molly Hester (Chris) , all of Knoxville; grandchildren: Sophie, Annabelle, Boin, Flossie, Benji, Teddy and Leo; sister Cindy McCord of Kingston; nieces Samantha and Hayley, nephews Brent and Neil and sister’s-in-law Dana and Elaine (Alberto). In lieu of flowers, the family asks donations be made in Keith’s name to Beaver Ridge United Methodist Church, Knoxville. The family will receive friends from 4:00-6:00 p.m. , Wednesday, July 20,2022 at Beaver Ridge United Methodist Church, 7753 Oak Ridge Hwy., Knox., TN 37931 with a Celebration of Life to follow at 6:00 pm. Condolences and memories are welcome at weaverfuneralservices.com

Weaver Funeral Home

5815 Western Ave.

Knoxville, TN 37921