Margaret Helen Hester

Margaret Helen Hester, age 93, passed away peacefully on May 27, 2026. Born January 8, 1933, Margaret was a beloved mother, grandmother, and whose life was marked by devotion to family, faith, and selfless service to others.

Margaret attended both Gadsden High School and Etowah High School. She was a devoted and long-standing member of College Heights Baptist Church, where she taught Sunday school and volunteered in the nursery for many years. She was also an active participant in her children’s PTA, always present and involved in the lives of those she loved.

Among her most cherished acts of love, Margaret and her husband James assumed guardianship of niece Nancy Moman Thompson and nephew Don Moman shortly after their marriage, opening their home and hearts without hesitation.

Margaret is survived by her daughters, Vicki Hester and Kim Hester (Susan); her grandsons and their families Gregg (Candi), Brinley, and Brooklynn Thompson; Chris (Kathy), Morgan (Dylan), Bryson, & Addie Kate Cornelius, and Emma Thompson; and cherished family member Lauil Thompson. She was preceded in death by her husband James, to whom she was married for 64 years; her dear sisters Pauline and Frances; her parents, Grady and Belle Vinyard; and her great-grandson Andrew Thompson.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Karen Johnson and Cathy Cline, whose compassionate and devoted care of Margaret at Regency Pointe was a true blessing. Sally Brown provided wonderful in-home care as well as the caring staff at the Cottages at Walnut Ridge. The family also wishes to express thanks to Gayle Shanlever, whose visits including watching Alabama football together brought great joy. Margaret’s grand dogs also brought endless joy to her life.

Margaret’s gentle spirit, steadfast faith, and abiding love will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know her.

The family kindly requests in lieu of flowers that memorial contributions be made to College Heights Baptist Church, 411 Rabbittown Road, Glencoe, Alabama 35905, a place that held a very special place in Margaret’s heart throughout her life.

Visitation will be held on Monday, June 1, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Collier-Butler Funeral Home, 824 Rainbow Drive, Gadsden, Alabama 35901. A graveside service will follow at 1:30 p.m. at Southside Cemetery.