George Raymond Hester

George Raymond Hester, 73, of Lake Charles passed away at 12:06 PM on Wednesday, April 5, 2017 in a local care facility.

Mr. Hester was born on June 22, 1943 in Gillis, LA where he lived the majority of his life until moving to Lake Charles 20 years ago. He attended school in Gillis and Marion High School and began his life long career as a welder with the Ironworkers Local #678.

He enjoyed painting and will be remembered for his beautiful artwork. Mr. Hester could be found working in his shop and was a jack of all trades. Mr. Hester had a character known for helping others and he especially cherished his time with his family and friends.

Those left to cherish his memory are a son, Kevin Hester (Heidi) of Spring Branch, TX; a daughter, Kim Hutchins (Jim) of Sharpsburg, GA; his beloved grandchildren, Julia, Jayne, Jenna, and Jessica Hutchins, Haley Ramirez (Eric), and Kari Hester; and one special great granddaughter, Ryleigh Hester-Gonzales.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Rita Faye Thibodeaux Hester; his parents, Raymond and Grethel Hester; and two sisters, Minnie Lee Hester and Willa Bea Herline.

A gathering of family members and friends will be on Friday, April 7, 2017 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Johnson Funeral Home. A private burial will be held in Reeves Memorial Gardens in Gillis.

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to Harbor Hospice and to the staff of Rosewood Nursing Home for their sincere care and compassion given to Mr. Hester. They would also like to express a special thank you to the doctors and staff at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital.