On Friday, August 26, 2022, Van Vinson Hester passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family and friends. He was laid to rest that evening in Belgreen Cemetery. There will be a celebration of his life for his family and friends on Saturday, September 03, 2022, at Rustic Youth Camp (3150 Shady Grove Road, Russellville, AL 35653) from 2:00 – 5:00 p.m.
Van worked for 37 years at Reynolds Metals and after a short retirement, he worked six more years at Foodworld in the meat department. He then opened and operated Hester Deer Processing where he had his family working at his side and made many new friends. He was a faithful member of Eastside Church of Christ. He and his wife Becky was very involved with the Rustic Youth Camp, working at the camp, and opening their home for anyone who did not have room at the camp. He loved his family, but most importantly he loved his Lord.
“So when this corruptible has put on incorruption, and this mortal has put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written: “Death is swallowed up in victory.” “Oh Death, where is your sting? Oh Hades, where is your victory?” The sting of death is sin, and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.” 1 Corinthians 15:54-58 New King James Version
He is preceded in death by his parents, Van & Jewel (McRight) Hester; sister, Nettie Ruth, and brother, Morgan Hester.
He leaves to cherish his memories, his wife of 51 years, Becky Hester; children, Vanessa Huffman, Teressa Bowen, Matt Hester, Seth Hester (April), Josh Hester (Candi), Gabe Hester (Tracy); 16 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; sister, Freda Hester Pauley (Jim); sister-in-law, Charlotte Hester; and numerous nieces and nephews.
The pallbearers were his grandsons and great-grandsons, Caleb Hester, Isaac Hester, Samuel Hester, Asa Hester, Kyle Hester, Bo LeMay, Kade LeMay, and Daniel Blasingame.
We, the family, appreciates all the kindness we have been shown by our friends and loved ones. We want to say a special thanks to the staff of Kindred Hospice for the care shown to him in the last week that allowed him to be home where he wanted to be. Van has told the family for years that he wanted to be buried the same day he died, and we want to extend a heartfelt appreciation to the staff of Spry Memorial Chapel, especially Robin and Clay Grissom, and Derrick Scott for your assistance in honoring his wishes.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider making a donation to Rustic Youth Camp, Russellville, AL, c/o Leigh-Anne Hester, 3150 Shady Grove Road, Russellville, AL 35653.
Spry Memorial chapel assisted the family.
