James Ellis “Jim” Hester, age 93, of Louisville, Kentucky returned to his Heavenly Father and went to see his beloved wife of 40 years, Paula, on Monday, September 14, 2026. He was born on September 25, 1932, in Louisville, Kentucky to the late Lee Bluford and Ollie B. (Childress) Hester. Jim was a proud veteran of the United States Air Force where he faithfully served during the Korean War. He was Baptist by faith and was a dedicated employee of American Airlines for 25 years. He was previous owner of Hester Realty at Nolin Lake. Jim loved the outdoors and he and his wife Paula enjoyed their home on Nolin Lake where they were surrounded by nature and animals. He loved fishing and taking peaceful rides in his car. Jim was a licensed pilot and loved airplanes. His true passion; however, was his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren whom he was extremely proud of and loved each of them deeply. He will be missed by all those who knew and loved him. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Paula (York) Hester, granddaughter, Nicole Gregory Galutia; brothers, Lemo Hester, Gene Hester, David “Ricky” Hester and Steven Lynn Hester and sisters, Viva Bolton, Clova Jones, Anita Allen and twins, Betty June and Mary May Hester.
Those left to honor and cherish his memory are his children, Cary Hester (Dennie), Geri Hester Gregory (George), Colleen Hester and Tim Hester (Margie); numerous grand children and great-grandchildren; brother, Donnie Hester (Betty); sister, Joan Payne (Carl) and a host of other nieces, nephews, family and friends.
Funeral service will be conducted on Monday, September 21, 2026, at 10:00 am in the chapel of Schoppenhorst, Underwood & Brooks Funeral Home (Preston Hwy. at Brooks Rd.) with interment in Brookland Cemetery. Family and friends may pay their respects on Sunday, September 20, 2026, from 1:00 pm until 7:00 pm and on Monday, September 21, 2026, from 9:00 am until the time of service at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, donations to EOD Warrior Foundation in honor of Jim are appreciated.
