CFD Capt. (Ret.) Lester Ray Massey, 87, of Columbus, Georgia passed away on Thursday July 4, 2024. He was born in Blakely, Georgia on April 29, 1937 to the late Mattie Lou Johnson Massey and Elsie Lee “Jake” Massey. Lester grew up on a rural farm as a young boy and later moved with his family to the city of Columbus, Georgia, where cotton mills thrived. He faithfully served his country in the United States Air Force for a brief time, but his true calling and passion was to serve his community with the Columbus Fire Department. Captain Lester Ray Massey served for 32 years before retiring from the Columbus Fire Department to spend time with the love of his life and bride, Betty C. Massey and family.
Lester enjoyed fishing, golf, and gardening in his leisure time. He was Christian in faith and attended Kirkland Memorial Baptist Church with Mrs. Betty. Not only was his service to his community with the fire department, but also with the Rosehill Masonic Lodge. Lester was also involved with Youth Sports in his Community.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Mattie and Jake Massey; his loving wife, Betty Massey; and his sister, Shirley Thomley. His loving memory will be cherished by his sons: Mike Massey (Kathy) of Columbus, GA and Marcus Massey of Orlando, FL; his grandchildren: Shannon Reed (Travis) of Columbus, GA, Hunter Massey (Ashton) of Columbus, GA, Logan Thorton of Wynn, AR, Stevie Massey of Jacksonville, NC, and Drew Massey of Wynn, AR; Great-grandchildren, Gracie Reed, Cooper Reed, and Blake Thorton; his sisters: Gracie Stewart of Lakeland, FL and Linda Guerrero of Cataula, GA; and a host of other family members.
Visitation for family and friends will be held on Tuesday, July 9, 2024 from 10:00 AM until 11:00 AM in the Edgewood Hall of Striffler-Hamby Mortuary, 4071 Macon Road, Columbus, Georgia 31907. Following the visitation, will be a funeral service with firefighter honors beginning at 11:00 AM with Reverend Travis Rigsby officiating. Burial will be in Parkhill Cemetery.
