Wilburn Ramon Lester
of Jacksonville, AR
August 17, 1948 - August 19, 2025
Wilburn Ramon Lester, 77, of Jacksonville, Arkansas passed away on August 19, 2025. Born on August 17, 1948 in Almyra, Arkansas at his Aunt Pauline and Uncle Ernie's house. He lived a life marked by service, dedication and an enduring love for his family and community.
A proud veteran of the United States Army, Wilburn served with distinction during the Vietnam War. He was awarded the Bronze Star with Valor for his bravery, a recognition he accepted with characteristic humility and humor, often referring to his time overseas as a tour through ''Sunny Southeast Asia''.
After returning home from military service, Wilburn built a career as a skilled mechanic. His hands were rarely still, whether repairing engines or coaching young athletes on dusty ballfields across Little Rock. Known affectionately as ''Coach Les'', he became a beloved figure at Geyer Springs Ballpark and Mabelvale Ballpark. Over the years, countless boys learned not only the fundamentals of baseball, basketball and football under his guidance but also lessons in perseverance, teamwork and respect.
He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Peggy Lester; daughter, Christine (Jeff) Crews; grandsons, Nick (Leslie) Crews and Nathan (Lauren) Crews; great-granddaughters, Hadlee Crews, Rubye Crews and Lennon Crews and great-grandson, Roy David Crews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Wilburn and Frances Lester; sisters, Judy Lester and Vicky Lester and brothers, Norman Lester, Joe Lester and Henry Lester.
Les will be remembered not only for his mechanical skill or military valor but for the countless lives he touched through mentorship and quiet strength. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him.
A Service will be held on Friday, August 29th from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM at Roller-Owens Funeral Home, 5509 John F. Kennedy Blvd, North Little Rock, AR followed with a short ceremony at the Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery, 1501 W. Maryland Ave., North Little Rock, AR.
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Obituary Provided By:
Roller-Owens Funeral Home
5509 John F. Kennedy Blvd.
North Little Rock, AR 72116
www.rollerfuneralhomes.com