James Marshall Hester

Rev. James Marshall Hester, 93, of Crystal River, Florida, formerly of Newton-Conover, NC, passed away May 31, 2025 under the care of Hospice.

He was born in Spindale, NC to Bessie Mae Blanton Hester and Dolphus James Hester. He had ten siblings all of whom preceded him in death.

Jim was a veteran of the Korean War where he served 4 years aboard the USS New Jersey. Following the war, he worked in the lumber mill industry with his brother and father. In 1963, he was called to the ministry, and served 40 years as pastor to several churches and as an interim pastor after his retirement.

He received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Limestone College, and then earned his Master of Divinty Degree from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary.

He was a devoted husband to his wife of 72 years, Dawn McDonald Hester, and a loving father to his three children, Michael Hester of Statesville, Elizabeth Hicks of Siler City, and Susan Elliott of Crystal River, Florida. He cherished his family.

Jim loved to hike in the mountains. Traveling was his passion and he enjoyed reading. He is remembered for his spontaneous sense of humor. He never met a stranger.

In addition to his wife and three children, he is survived by 6 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren, and 2 great-great grandchildren.

Memorials may be made to The American Heart Association, PO Box 840692, Dallas, TX 75284. There will be a memorial service at a later date.