Ernest Walker Lester age 80, passed away of natural causes at his Castleberry, Alabama home June 6, 2026.

 

Graveside services will be held 1:00 pm, Thursday, June 11, 2026 in Hillcrest Cemetery with Cope-Keahey Funeral  Home directing.

 

Hillcrest Cemetery

2250 Stanton Road

East Point, GA 30344

 

 

Ernest Lester was born September 19, 1945 to Milton and Opal (Davis) Lester of East Point, Georgia. He was a 1963 graduate of Russell High School in East Point. Ernest joined the United States Marine Corps in 1964 and proudly served his country four years including a tour in Vietnam and achieving the rank of sergeant. In 1968 he returned to Georgia and worked multiple jobs before beginning his career with Western Electric/Bell South. After his retirement from Western Electric/Bell South, and the death of his beloved parents, Ernest moved to Castleberry, Alabama in 2005 to be near his only sibling, Virginia (Lester) Godbee.

 

Ernest is preceded in death by his parents; Milton and Opal (Davis) Lester. Sister, Virginia (Lester) Godbee. Nephew, Tracy Godbee. Grand Nephew, Nathaniel McCurry. Grand Niece, Natasha (McCurry) Schroeder. Great-Grand Niece, Amber Schroeder.

 

Growing up during the fifties Ernest enjoyed fishing, music, and cars. He also developed a strong interest in physical fitness and a healthy lifestyle which continued into his later years. He was a born again Christian and a member of Harrison Road Baptist Church, East Point, GA. He spent many hours reading and studying the Bible and supported multiple ministries until his death. In later years he relished time at home reading books and researching favorite topics online. He looked forward to every Saturday morning visiting with his brother-in-law, Bob Godbee at Pastor’s Pond and spending the holidays with family.

 

Ernest is survived by his Brother-in-law; Rev. Robert A. Godbee of Castleberry, AL. Two Nephews; Terry Godbee, Odum, GA. Tim (Anita) Godbee, Riverdale, GA. Niece, Phyllis (Lloyd) Gallman, Castleberry, AL. Six Grand Nieces and Nephews. Seventeen Great-Grand Nieces and Nephews. Four Great-Great Nieces and Nephews. And a multitude of extended family and friends.