MARGARET K. LESTER

Margaret Lester, 87, of Piqua, passed away peacefully at 11:45 p.m. Monday, March 18, 2024 at Piqua Manor Nursing Home. She was born April 14, 1936 in Welch, West Virginia to the late John Wallace and Susie Florence (Addair) Deskins. She married Cleve Lester November 4, 1983 in Oceana, West Virginia; and he preceded her in death April 30, 1991. She spent her winters in Florida and struck a companionship with Dick Van Arsdale, who also preceded her in death.

Survivors include two daughters, Carol (Amy Smith) Shelby, Janet (Bill) Koon, both of Piqua; a son, Kenneth Bailey of South Carolina; four stepsons, Gary (Susana) Van Arsdale of Coral Springs, Florida, Woody (Cathy) Bailey of Rocky Gap, Virginia, James (Brenda) Bailey of Princeton, West Virginia, Danny (Julie) Bailey of Princeton, West Virginia; ten grandchildren, Paul, Lorita, Michelle, Michael, David, Matthew, Cody, Gary, Julie, Jonathon; nineteen great grandchildren; three sisters, Amy (Don) Click of Wawakee, Indiana, Shirley (Johnny) Snyder of Bristol, Tennessee, Alma (Willie) Gibson of Ligonier, Indiana; a brother, Martin (Norma) Deskins of Bluefield, Virginia; and her beloved canine companion, Lily Grace. She was preceded in death by nine brothers; two sisters; and a stepson, Sampy Bailey.

Mrs. Lester worked for many years as a Nurse’s Aide for Hilltop Haven, then as a dietician for Piqua Manor before her retirement in 1983. She was an avid Bingo player and enjoyed playing cards and board games, especially Trouble; at which she was very competitive and loved to win. She enjoyed tending her flowers and attending garage sales. She looked forward to hosting Campfire Nights in her backyard and loved to entertain family and friends as they enjoyed the yard and good company. Most of all, she adored her family and loved them more than anything. She will be deeply missed by her loving family and many friends.

A service to honor her life will begin at 1:00 p.m. Friday, March 22, 2024 at the Jamieson & Yannucci Funeral Home with Bishop Dennis R. Martin officiating. Burial will follow at Forest Hill Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 11:00-1:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, Miami Valley Chapter 6077 Far Hills Ave #117 Dayton, OH 45459. Guestbook condolences and expressions of sympathy, to be provided to the family, may be expressed through jamiesonandyannucci.com

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