John Edward Lester, 80, of Russellville, passed away Thursday, Feb. 19, 2026 at the Hospice House of Southern Kentucky in Bowling Green. He was born in Chapmanville, W.V. on Sept. 21,1945 to the late Cecil Randolph Lester and Rachae Lunsford Lester. He was an HVAC technician and was a member of the Southwood Church of Christ in Columbus, Ohio.
Music was a special part of his life, and he was especially gifted as a steel guitar musician, sharing his talent and love of music with many over the years.
He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Jeanette Toppins Lester; his son, John Warren Lester of Franklin; and his daughter, Jaime Elizabeth Brennan and husband Joseph of Russellville.
Funeral services for John Edward Lester will be conducted at 1 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 23, at Summers and Son Funeral Home with burial to follow in Maple Grove Cemetery. Visitation at the funeral home on Monday will be held from 11 a.m. until the service hour.
Memorial donations may be made to the Hospice of Southern Kentucky, 5872 Scottsville Road, Bowling Green, KY 42104.
Pallbearers: Matt Ellis, Joe Brennan, Nathan Garris and Dylan Douglas