Winston "James" D. Lester

Winston “James” D. Lester, 70 of Stillman Valley, peacefully passed from earth to Glory, September 24, 2014, surrounded by his children. Born November 2, 1943 in Corning, AR; he was the son of Henry Lee and Fleeda (Reeves) Lester. He married the love of his life, Carol Jean Verkuilen, to whom he was married more than 33 years, on April 10, 1965 in Corning, AR.

A 42 year member of Local 23 Plumbers and Pipefitters Union, James retired from D & L Plumbing after 37 years of employment.

A proud “Papaw” to his two grandchildren, he enjoyed gardening, playing his banjo and guitar, and spending time with his family. In his earlier years he also enjoyed shooting pool and fishing trips with his brothers.

He is lovingly survived by his children, Teresa , Tammie, and Jamie (Melissa) Lester, and Lisa Lester-Cozad; grandchildren, Caleb Chastain and McKinley Lester; siblings, Marilyn (Earl) Marr, Jessie (Walter) Scott, Bill (Patsy) Byes, Lee (Peggie) Lester, Dee (Joanne) Lester, and Yulonda Hubbard; sisters-in-law, Juanita Byes and Kay Lester; and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.

James was predeceased by his parents, wife, Carol; brothers, Melvin Byes and Jerry Lester; and brother-in-law, Donald Hubbard.

Special thanks to the CCU nursing staff of Swedish American Hospital for the phenomenal care and compassion they gave to our “Dad”.

Funeral service 10 a.m. Saturday, September 27, at Sunset Funeral Home, 8800 N. Alpine Road, Machesney Park; Pastor Nathan Byes officiating. Visitation 6 – 8 p.m. Friday, September 26, at the funeral home. Interment in Sunset Memorial Gardens. Online condolences may be submitted at sunsetfhmemgardens.com

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