BISHOP RALPH L. LESTER

Johnston City–Bishop Ralph L. Lester, born August 8, 1928, was welcomed in the arms of his Saviour on August 27, 2016.

He leaves behind his wife Shirley Lester, Cleveland, Tennessee, son, Toddy and wife Sue Lester, Raytown, Missouri, daughter, Joan and husband Roger Karsh, Sun City, Arizona, son, Charles and wife Melinda Lester, Molten, MO. He also leaves behind a step son, Joseph Vance, Nashville, Tennessee; 4 grandchildren, 12 step grandchildren, 6 great grandchildren and 24 step great grandchildren and 2 great great grandchildren, many cousins, nephews, nieces along with many friends around the world.

He is preceded in death by his first wife, Lucille Lester, 2 step sons, Richard and Robert Vance.
Bishop Lester spent 71 years of his life working for The Church of God. His most recent position was Regional Overseer for the Southeast Region. He served on the Administrative Committee, Chairman of the Watchman Committee, General Trustee and Production Manager for the General Assembly.

His many friends within the Church, as well as the community, loved him dearly and will greatly be missed by all who knew him.
He served as General Manager for Ford Motors dealership in Missouri. He was also involved in law enforcement serving as deputy in the state of Missouri and also with the tobacco and firearms department. He served our country in the United States Air Force.

Services will be held at 12:00 noon Monday September 5, 2016 at the The Church of God, 1119 Newport Road, West Frankfort, IL 62896. Burial will be in the Lakeview Cemetery of Johnston City. Visitation will be from 10:00 A.M. to 12:00 noon Monday and 5:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. Sunday at the church. Murman & Wilson Funeral Home in Johnston City is in charge of arrangements.