Marjorie Lou Jester

Marjorie Lou Jester, lovingly known as Margie, passed away surrounded by the love of her family. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and cherished friend, her life was defined by quiet strength, loyalty, deep friendships, and an unwavering devotion to those she held dear.

Margie was born on June 8, 1938, in Randolph, Nebraska, to Harold and Leone Wilson. In 1949, her family relocated to Oregon, where she would spend most of her life. She attended Monitor Elementary School and graduated as salutatorian from Silverton High School in 1955 - an early reflection of the intelligence and dedication that would guide her throughout her life.

In 1958, Margie married Cecil Plumb. During his military service, they lived at Fort Lewis, Washington, before settling in Corvallis while he attended Oregon State University. Together they welcomed two children, Valerie and Bradley. The family later moved to Grants Pass, where they owned and operated a Shell Oil jobbership business. Though Margie and Cecil later divorced, the years they shared laid the foundation for the family Margie treasured above all else.

In 1984, Margie married Dave Jester, beginning a new and deeply meaningful chapter of her life. Their story began in a most practical way - Dave was initially Margie’s landlord, but over time that simple connection grew into a loving partnership rooted in mutual respect, shared goals, and genuine companionship.

Together, Margie and Dave built a life defined by hard work and shared dreams. They acquired and managed multiple rental properties, working side by side and taking great pride in what they built together. One of their greatest accomplishments was the construction of their dream home perched above the Willamette Valley - a place that reflected their dedication and appreciation for beauty, peace, and home.

Margie and Dave shared a love of travel and adventure, creating lasting memories in Hawaii and Florida, enjoying cruises through the Caribbean and Alaska, and making frequent trips back to Nebraska to spend time with beloved family. These journeys were filled with laughter, companionship, and the quiet joy of simply being together. She had a love for flowers, and an obsession for delectable chocolates.

Margie built a long and respected career in the legal field, working for multiple law firms in Grants Pass and Salem. Known for her intelligence, organization, and professionalism, she dedicated nearly 25 years to legal administration. She concluded her career as firm administrator for the law firm of Saalfeld Griggs, retiring at the end of 2000.

Margie is survived by her children, Valerie and Bradley; her stepchildren, Dave and Dana; 9 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren, who brought her immense pride and joy. She was preceded in death by her husband, Dave Jester; her parents, Harold and Leone; her brother, Buddy; her sisters, Lorraine, Lois, and Patty; and a beloved grandson, Nicholas, whom she held forever in her heart.

A woman of grace and kindness, Margie was an active member of Beta Sigma Phi and deeply treasured the lifelong friendships she formed through her sorority. She was dependable, thoughtful, and deeply caring—someone others could always count on.

Margie found joy in life’s simple pleasures and had a special fondness for hummingbirds, whose quiet beauty and resilience reflected her own spirit. She leaves behind a legacy of love, steadiness, and devotion - woven into the lives of her family and all who were fortunate enough to know her.