My dad was a super hero.  He always seemed like a cross between Burt Reynolds and Superman.  I’m not sure if I was really allowed to but he would let me ride with him on overnight shifts when he was a patrolman and then an evidence technician for JSO.  I was always so proud, everyone knew my dad, and everyone loved him.  Two things you could be sure of, my dad always seemed to just ‘show up’ when my Grams was making fried corn bread, and he also always seemed to know and show up when I needed him.  He just..knew.  I loved hearing my dad say, “wonder where you get that from” when I’d tell him something about myself.  We were just alike.  Hard headed, stubborn, all of the above.  We didn’t speak for a long time.  But then we did.  He wasn’t the kind of dad to say I love you, but he’d show up with a giant Christmas tree with all the trimmings.  Or a pumpkin Halloween that he spent forever looking for to make sure the shape was just right.  So I knew he loved me.  But then, when we reconnected, he’d tell me he loved me.  And I loved him.  He was my Grams’ first child, I was his first child.  I was born on his 21st birthday.  My dad is preceded in death by his mother, Betty Wester, and his son, Sgt. Edward Wester.  Dad, when I look in the mirror, I see your face.  When I say little things you’d say, I hear your voice.  I love you, Dad.  Until we meet again…

We are deeply saddened by the loss of someone who was not just a great friend, but truly a great man. Grady’s unwavering loyalty, kindness, and presence in our lives brought comfort in ways words can never fully express. We will always cherish the memories, laughter, and unforgettable storytelling. His spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. 
Rest in peace dear friend.

Grady has been a true friend and neighbor to my family for many years. I’ve never known a finer gentleman.  I am comforted knowing that he is resting in the arms of Jesus with no more suffering. He will certainly be missed.

I was so sorry to hear about Grady’s passing.  My husband, Larry Robinson,  served as an Evidence Technician with the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office.  He spoke of Grady often.  Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with your family.  Rest in Peace, dear Grady.           Sincerely, Nancy Robinson

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Kenneth Wester

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Kenneth Grady Wester

1 February, 1948 – 5 May, 2025

Hardage-Giddens Riverside Funeral Home & Riverside Memorial Park

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