William Leon Lester, Sr.
July 8, 1942 ~ January 2, 2014
William (Bill) Lester, 71 of New Braunfels, Texas, formerly of Corpus Christi, passed away on Thursday, January 2, 2014 in New Braunfels. He fought cancer for two years with dignity and resolve and died as the result of a heart attack, never letting cancer get the upper hand. Bill was a gentle soul, a devoted husband, father, grandfather and friend. He was preceded in death by his mother and step-father, Billie Jean and Floyd Johnson of Victoria, TX. The loves of his life were his wife, his children and his grandchildren. Survivors are his beloved wife of almost 34 years, Susie; sons, William Lester, Jr. (Sharon) of Jacksonville, Alabama, Cliff Lester of McAllen, TX and step-son Chad Barnett (Jessica) of Kyle, TX; grandchildren, Bethany, Will, Daniel, Hannah, Lauren, Nathan and Samuel Lester of Jacksonville, Alabama. He was extremely proud of his family and they meant the world to him. Also surviving is a sister Ginger (Les) Elich of Austin TX. He will be forever loved and missed by all.
Bill retired at the age of 55 from Celanese in Bishop, TX and he and Susie were inseparable during their retirement years. They enjoyed traveling and spending time with family and friends. Bill loved sports and was always involved in his sons' sports during their early years and then cherished time spent with his precious grandchildren.
In accordance with Bill's wishes, there will be no funeral service. A private family memorial to honor him will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, you may make a contribution in Bill's memory to your favorite charity. To leave a message for the family, visit www.www.luxfhcares.com and select obituaries.
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May Bill rest in peace. He was a good friend.
About 34 years ago, when I was driving home from work, I looked over and saw Bill and his two sons (in suits) getting into his car heading to his wedding to Susie. Seems like yesterday. His family became part of my “Extended Family”, as did many of the great friends I was fortunate to work with. So many great memories. One of the best was the day that Bill & V.T. decided to put Dave Garner into one of the upright tool cabinets in the I&E Shop. In the middle of the effort, our General Foreman, Bill Timmans, walked by. They froze. Then he said, “I didn’t see anything”! They DID get Dave into that tool cabinet. I got out of there fast. I thought I might be next ! Bill figured-out that he could stand right behind a door as I approached, and say “Boo” as I walked by. Made me jump Every Time ! Bill & Susie helped me get through some really tough personal times. I owe them so much. Bill, I will always look for you behind that door because you know I will eventually be there. I love you Man.
Sorry to hear, I lost another buddy. Bill and I took turns driving back and forth to Celanese for a while. My Prayers, he will be missed. benny
My condolences go out to Bills family. Bill and I worked together at Celanese for several years. I remember him as an honest, dedicated, and hard working man. May he rest in peace.
I was very sadden to read about Bills’ passing. Had hopes of seeing him again and reminisce. He taught me a lot about the craft and was such a joy to be around. My heart goes to his family and loved ones.
Oh, Susie. My hearts aches for you and remains broken for my Frank and now your Bill. I remember the day you called and said you were getting married and i would kmow him. I asked how because you were in Corpus and I in San Antonio. And then you said because he went to school with me in Freer, and yes, he was a year behind me and I did know him! I am so happy he came into your life and you had 34 years together. He was a wonderful person who met and married a wonderful girl. I love you, my long time girlfriend. Jeanette
Susie, I’m truly saden to hear about Bill, please accept my condolences. He was a good friend,and enjoyed working with him when he was still here at Celanese. God bless you and your family.
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Susie, thank you so much for letting me know. I have been thinking about Bill ever since you told me he had cancer. My heart bleeds for you because I know how hard it would be for me if Paul died. I know Bill is at peace and without pain now, but I still wish we could have had more time together. I am just so glad God let me find him in time to get to meet him face to face. Again I pray for God to comfort you in your lose. Joyce