James Russell Lester

Throughout his life, Mr. Lester carried himself with steady integrity and a quiet decency that left a lasting impression. He was known as a kind-hearted man whose honesty guided his words and actions, and as someone who met responsibilities with diligence and pride. He served in the U.S Army, a reflection of his strong work ethic and commitment to duty—values that remained evident in the way he lived and cared for those around him. Working as a mechanic then woodworker for Harvey Cabinet, he eventually started his own business doing wood working. He still loved to tinker with old cars in his free time and enjoyed attending car shows specifically to talk to like-minded car enthusiasts. He took pleasure in life’s quieter moments: lounging in a hammock, sitting in the breezeway, listening to Bluegrass music, and going to the flea market on Sundays. He also loved to take off on road trips with his family to explore, often not knowing where he was going until he got there. Indoors, he was content watching old westerns and spending quality time with his beloved wife Margaret and his other close family members.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Ethel and John Lester as well as many beloved friends and family members.

Those left to cherish his memory are his devoted wife of 35 years, Margaret Lester; children James Tolliver, Joel Tolliver, and Heather Elkins (Chuckie); grandchildren James Douglas Tolliver (Kelsie), Gabriel Tolliver, and Charlie Love Elkins; great-grandchildren Lainey Tolliver, Haven Tolliver, and Jace Tolliver; a dear sister Ida Mae Helmandollar; brothers Kenneth Lester and Floyd Lester (Martha); nephews Jason Terry, Kevin Lester, Scott Lester, Mike Lester (Teresea), and David Lester; as well as many other extended family members and friends. He will be remembered with deep respect and enduring affection by all who had the privilege to know him.

Services by Pastor Scott Lester will be held at Blue Ridge Funeral Home on Friday May 1st, 2026, at 1pm. Friends are encouraged to join the family for visitation beginning at 12pm on the day of the service, after the services he will be laid to rest at the Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens. Those wishing to share photos, memories, stories, and messages of condolence are encouraged to do so under the memories section of James’ obituary on BlueRidgeFuneralHomeBeckley.com