James Richard Hester

James Richard Hester, 79, died peacefully on Saturday, June 1, 2013 surrounded by his family and best friend. Funeral services will be held at 11:00AM Tuesday, June 4, 2013 at the chapel of Hart's Mortuary, Cherry Street with the Reverend Phil Anderson officiating. Burial will be private at the Georgia Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Milledgeville. The family will greet friends Monday from 6:00PM to 8:00PM at the funeral home. Everyone is invited to a celebration reception at 6:00PM Tuesday at 774 Blanton Boulevard, the residence of Barbara Majors. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the donor's favorite charity. Mr. Hester; affectionately known as Mr. H, Grandpa and Papa; graduated from Lanier High School in 1952 and attended Mercer University. For 6 ½ years, he served in the U.S. Navy in Korea. Later he served as a civilian in Vietnam and was retired from Robins Air Force Base after 35 years as an Inventory Management Specialist. Grandpa participated in 26 Bassmasters and was an avid poker player. Mr. Hester was predeceased by three brothers and two sisters. Mr. Hester is survived by his bride of 53 years, Shirley Hester of Macon; daughter, Jamie Howard (Neal) of Lake Oconee; son, Trey Hester (Kelley) of Greenville, SC; and his beloved granddaughter, Bebe Hester of Greenville, SC. Register online at www.hartsmort.com. Hart's Mortuary and Crematory, Cherry Street, has charge of arrangements.