Ronald Hoke Lester

Ronald "Ronnie" Hoke Lester passed away Monday, February 13, 2012 at Emory University Hospital due to complications from a twelve year battle with lymphoma.
Mr. Lester was born September 11, 1941 in Madison County. He was a son of Lillian Lowe Lester Shook of Athens and the late Hoke E. Lester.
Survivors include his wife of thirty-eight years, Gail Bennett Lester; two sons, Kevin Paul Lester and Kelly Scott Lester; two grandsons, Zachary and Josh Lester; brother, Wayne A. (Cynthia) Lester; nieces,Elizabeth (Michael) Johnson and Cynthia (Brad) Shepherd; two step-sisters, Von Bird and Trudy Hancock. He was preceded in death by his sister, Linda Lester Blanchard. Ronnie also leaves behind his faithful chocolate lab, Buck.
Mr. Lester owned and operated Oconee Solid Surface since 1998. He and Gail were the owners of Brandy's Restaurant from 1976 until 1985. He served in the Army Reserves for several years. Ronnie was an avid golfer, hunter, as well as an award winning barrel racer on horseback.
Funeral services will be Wednesday, February 15, 2012 at 1:00 PM at the chapel of Lord and Stephens, WEST. Interment will be in Evergreen Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Tuesday from 6:00 until 8:00 pm at the funeral home.
Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society, Loran Smith Center for Cancer Support or to Emory Hospital Patient Services.
Lord and Stephens, WEST, is in charge of arrangements.