Johnnie Wayne Lester

In Loving Memory of Johnnie Wayne Lester June 4, 1945 to October 17, 2026

Johnnie Wayne Lester, born on June 4, 1945, in Bakersfield, California, went home to be with our Lord and Savior on October 17, 2026. He passed away peacefully, surrounded by the warmth, love, and comfort of his devoted family.

On February 19, 1964, Johnnie married the love of his life, Jennie Lou. Together, they built a life rooted in faith, strength, and unwavering devotion, sharing 62 beautiful years of marriage side by side. Through every chapter, their love remained the steady anchor of their family. Their home was always a welcoming, soft place to land, a haven filled with laughter, comfort, and the rare kind of love that made everyone feel like they belonged.

Johnnie was a hardworking man who spent many years working in the mines and in construction. He knew the value of honest labor, but what mattered most to him was the life and love he built with his family. A true outdoorsman, some of his happiest days were spent hunting, camping, heading out on mountain rides, and teaching many of his loved ones the art and respect of the hunt. Along with his love for the mountains, he had a deep passion for taking his truck out and letting all of his grandchildren drive it, creating unforgettable adventures and pride along the way.

Music, laughter, and joy were staples of Johnnie's life. He loved playing music, singing, and dancing, with a special place in his heart for classic country, especially George Jones. He had a gift for passing that joy along, patiently teaching others to pick their first chords on the guitar, like "House of the Rising Sun". Johnnie was a natural jokester and the ultimate "fun uncle" who made ordinary moments extraordinary, whether playing an unforgettable game of hide and seek, whipping up his famous "scrambled egg brownies", or burning popcorn with his own special flair. With his contagious grin, he had an effortless way of turning around anyone's day and making each person feel seen, valued, and important.

A sentimental soul at heart, he cherished every second with those he held dear. He loved looking through family photographs and was notorious for snapping candid photos on his phone when no one was ready, capturing real, unscripted moments and freezing them in time to be treasured forever.

Johnnie was one of those rare, genuine souls who gave with his entire heart. When he entered a room, his affection, warmth, and sheer happiness lit it up. He did not have to do anything grand to leave a mark; his kindness, generous spirit, and open heart made anyone he ever met feel truly loved, valued, and special. When Johnnie loved you, you felt it deeply, and that is a gift that will never be forgotten.

His family was his greatest treasure. The moments spent laughing, joking, and sharing stories with his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews brought him endless pride and fulfillment. The knowledge he shared, the time he gave, and the love he poured into everyone around him will continue to live on through every lesson taught, every song played, and every memory held close.

Johnnie is survived by his loving wife and the love of his life, Jennie Lester, who shared 62 incredible years with him; his children, Johnny Ray Lester and his wife, Debbie, and his daughter, Cherri Lester; his four grandchildren, Kyle (Scarlett), Brandon, Justin (Ashley), and Kylie (his honorary grandson, Kolten); his four cherished great-grandchildren, Johnny Brody, Luke Ray, Magnolia, and Scarlett; as well as many loving nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends. Each of them was a special part of his life, and each will carry a piece of his love in their hearts forever.

He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, John and Pearl Lester; his sister, Patty McCoy; and his nephew, Donald McCoy.

Though saying goodbye is never easy, we find comfort in knowing that Johnnie is now at peace in the loving arms of our Lord and Savior. While his family and friends will miss his presence dearly, his spirit will never leave them. It will live on in the lessons he taught, the kindness he showed, the laughter and jokes he shared, and the memories that will be cherished for a lifetime.

Some people leave this world and are remembered for what they did. Others are remembered for how they made people feel. Johnnie did both. He leaves behind a legacy of unwavering love and countless memories that will continue to bring comfort, smiles, and tears of gratitude for years to come.

Graveside Service A graveside service celebrating Johnnie's life will be announced as soon as arrangements are finalized. A reception will follow, with additional details to be shared at a later time.

"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." John 3:16

Until we meet again, may you rest in God's eternal love. You will be deeply missed, endlessly loved, and forever in our hearts