David Lester, 1950-2021

David Arthur Lester, 70, of Lake Wales passed away Friday, Aug. 27, 2021 at Winter Haven Hospital.

He was born October 1, 1950 in Winter Haven to the late D. Donald and Frances "Frankie" Lester. David took great pride in being a University of Florida graduate. He worked for the State of Florida and later worked at Disney as a resort security manager.

He was of strong Catholic faith. He took great joy in making wonderful meals for his family and friends, taking trips with family, including his brothers, sisters, nephews, and nieces, and spending time in nature. He loved entering sweepstakes and always had a funny joke to tell. David never met a stranger and would take joy from talking to anyone who crossed his path. He is best remembered as a devoted and loving husband and father, who always had time for his family.

David is survived by his wife of 49 years, Nancy Lester; daughters, Amanda Gonzales (Mike) of Lakeland, and Laura Kinchen (Andrew) of Fort Meade; sons, Matthew Lester (Liz) of Haines City, and Michael Lester of Winter Haven; sisters, Mary Currie of Saint Petersburg, Kay Trabulsi (Phil) of Danville, Indiana, and Janet Hoeft (Eddie) of Gainesville; brothers, Steve Lester (Janet Lynn) of Watkinsville, Georgia, and Richard Lester of Gainesville; and eight grandchildren.

A celebration of life will be held at a later time in Gainesville. Marion Nelson Funeral Home in Lake Wales is handling arrangements.