Charles Wesley Lester

Charles Wesley Lester, lovingly known as "Chief" and "Pops," passed away on May 14, 2026, at the age of 87, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on October 17, 1938, in Wichita Falls, Texas, Charles was the son of Charles Buford Lester and Laura Loree "Lori" (Shull) Lester. He lived a life defined by service, hard work, generosity, loyalty, and an unwavering devotion to those he loved.

Charles proudly served his country in the United States Navy, retiring as an E-7. During his military career, he served as a recruiter and earned the respect of those around him through his leadership, discipline, and dedication.

After his military service, Charles built a successful roofing business. He was never the kind of owner to sit behind a desk while others did the work. He climbed roofs himself, worked alongside his crews, and believed that if a job was worth doing, it was worth doing right. He was tough, direct, and known for not tolerating excuses. Those who knew him best would probably describe him as a hard ass with a heart of gold.

One of Charles's greatest passions was the Elks Lodge and the Elks National Foundation. He devoted countless hours to the organization and was one of only a select few recipients of the prestigious Diamond Award, recognizing more than $100,000 in lifetime charitable contributions. Service to others was not simply something he did—it was part of who he was.

Though he was known for being strong-willed and stubborn, children brought out his softer side. Family members knew that beneath the gruff exterior was a man who loved deeply and cared fiercely for those closest to him.

Charles also had a mischievous sense of humor. One favorite family story involved a recliner his daughter Jessica found for him through a free giveaway. Thinking she had solved a problem for her dad, she proudly delivered the chair—only to later discover that Charles had sold it to his longtime employee and dear friend Greg for forty dollars. The story became a perfect example of Charles's practical nature, independent spirit, and ability to keep everyone laughing.

Charles often said that Greg was the best employee he ever had. Over the years, however, Greg became much more than an employee. He became family, and he remains family still.

Charles was preceded in death by his parents, Charles Buford Lester and Laura Loree "Lori" Lester; his beloved wife, Joyce Lester, who passed away in 1997; and his brother, Buford Wayne Lester.

He is survived by his children, Charles Wesley Lester II, Rhonda Lester, and Jessica Michelle Lester; his granddaughter, Gabrielle Alexis Brooke LeTort and her husband; and his treasured great-grandchildren, Gavin, Michael, Everett, Matthew, and Parker Mac.

Charles's final days reflected the devotion that defined his life. While traveling to be at the bedside of his son, Charles Wesley Lester II, who was on life support, Charles was involved in a devastating automobile accident. Despite suffering severe injuries, including a broken neck, broken back, ruptured spleen, and traumatic brain injury, he fought bravely.

His daughter Jessica was honored to be by his side in his final moments, a responsibility she carried with immense love and courage.

Charles leaves behind a legacy of service, generosity, determination, and unconditional love. He will be remembered as a proud Navy veteran, a successful businessman, a devoted Elk, a loyal friend, a loving father and grandfather, and a man whose strength was matched only by the size of his heart.

The lessons he taught, the stories he leaves behind, and the love he shared will continue to live on through the family and friends who were fortunate enough to know him.

Fair winds and following seas, Chief.

May he rest in peace.