Judy G. Lester

Judy Garland Lester, 81, passed away on August 6, 2025. Judy was born on April 11, 1944 in Loris, South Carolina, she was the daughter of Ernest and Mertice Harrelson.

Judy was a teacher, volunteer, mother, grandmother, sister and friend. She was silly, serious, gentle and strong. She touched countless lives with her caring spirit, generosity, humor and dedication. She was a teacher for over twenty years and had a magical touch when it came to teaching the difficult students, the ones no one else could reach. She treated each child with patience, understanding and love and she enriched those student’s lives forever. After Judy retired from teaching, she wanted to continue to give to her community and help people, which she did by volunteering at faith-based thrift stores.

Judy was passionate about spending time with family and friends, especially playing bridge and bunco. She also greatly enjoyed flowers and had a gift for arranging beautiful flower pieces that she loved to give as a gift to brighten someone’s special day or just for fun.

Judy loved making moments special for her family and was a devoted grandmother to six granddaughters and three great-grandsons who affectionately called her “Gigi”.

Judy is preceded in death by her husband, Col. Benjamin Lester, Jr.; son, Trent Lester, and brother, Wallace Harrelson. She is survived by her partner, James Faut; daughter, Paige Davis; grandchildren, Mercedes Valles and husband, Rey, Cierra Lester, Emry Lester, Reagan Riley Davis, Seraphina Davis and Trinity Lester; great grandchildren, Ben Valles, Ty Valles and Zayden Valles; sister, Vickie Stokes and daughter-in-law, Carol Lester.

Visitation will be on Wednesday, August 20, 2025 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM. A Service will be held on Thursday, August 21, 2025 at Universal City United Methodist with a procession to follow to Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery.