Margaret Gail Lester

Margaret Gail Lester, age 68, passed away on September 11, 2015 at Athens Regional Medical Center. She was born in Atlanta, Georgia on December 27, 1946, the daughter of the late Frances and William Bennett. She attended Middle Georgia College and The University of Georgia.
Mrs. Lester retired after 35 years from the University of Georgia with a long career in the Development Office, retiring as Director of Special Events.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Ronald H. Lester and longtime friend and college roommate, Juanita Dooley. Gail, Ronnie and Juanita each battled different forms of cancer for many years, and Gail was especially well known among her many friends for her compassionate caring support of her family and friends. Devoted caregiver and advocate defined Gail's years of volunteering and support of various cancer causes. She was a volunteer and supporter for many years of The Northeast Georgia Cancer Foundation, The American Cancer Society and The Loran Smith Center for Cancer Support.
She is survived by several cousins including Ann Wood and Jane Wood of Athens; Mother- in- Law, Lillian Shook, step sons Kevin and Kelly Lester; step grandsons, Zack and Josh Lester; her late husband's stepsisters, Trudy Hancock and Von Bird; brother and sister- in- law, Wayne and Cindy Lester ; nieces and nephews, Dr. Elizabeth Johnson, Michael Johnson, Cole Johnson and Lily Ashton Johnson; Doctors Cynthia and Brad Shepherd, Emory Shepherd and John Parker Shepherd; and many faithful friends.
Funeral Services will be held at the chapel of Lord and Stephens West on Monday, September 14, 2015 at 2 p.m. Visitation immediately precedes the service at 1 p.m. at Lord and Stephens West. Interment will be in Evergreen Memorial Park.
Memorials may be made to The Northeast Georgia Cancer Foundation and The American Cancer Society in lieu of flowers.
Lord and Stephens West is in charge of arrangements. www.lordandstephens.com