John Edward Lester

He was preceded in death by his beloved parents Jacqueline “Bish” and James “Jimmy” Lester.

He is survived by his children Madison Anna Fox Lester and Patrick James Lester; siblings Suzanne (Neil) Kahanovitz, James Cary (Cathy) Lester, Jacqueline “Jacx” (Eric) Ramos; nieces and nephews who loved him, Margaret (Clay) Fulk, Claire (William) Barrows, Andrew James Ramos, Jacqueline “Jacy” Victoria Ramos, Stephanie Hlavin, Alexia “Lexie” (Adam Strauss) Kahanovitz, Katherine (Nick Sliva) Kahanovitz.

Adored son of Jimmy and Bish Lester, Johnny was born in Roanoke, Virginia. He attended Crystal Spring Elementary School, North Cross School and Roanoke College. Johnny loved the airlines and had a lengthy career with Piedmont Airlines and US Air in Baltimore, Maryland. He moved to Williamsburg, Virginia in 2004 where he worked for Williamsburg Plantation, J. M. Randall’s, and Wyndham Hotels & Resorts.

From his early years Johnny played and loved all types of sports. He enjoyed spending time on the water often accompanied by his black lab, traveling the Virginian mountains, playing guitar and socializing with friends. Never having met a stranger, Johnny had a kind and congenial word for all. With his effervescent personality and quick sense of humor Johnny was the consummate entertainer. He believed, “It’s a good day if I can make someone laugh.” In his final days, he found solace from family and friends and was grateful to those who re-connected from years past to touch his heart. Johnny loved life and will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

The family will receive friends from 4:00 - 6:00pm on Thursday, May 13 at Nelsen Funeral Home, 3785 Strawberry Plains Road, Williamsburg.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in his loving memory to the charity of one’s choice.