Gary Hester

Gary Hester, 70, with his family by his side, traveled on to his heavenly home Aug. 13, 2015. His devotion to his family and his firm belief in God supported him in his struggle and ultimately gave him peace.

Gary was born July 26,1945 and soon became the son

of the late Marion (Bus) Ross Hester and Floye Mae Hester, of Prairie Grove, Arkansas where he lived until moving to Susanville in 1963. Gary was blessed with a large and loving family. He married Karon Johnston on Sept. 18, 1964. Gary then helped Karon raise their two children, Marian and Thomas Hester. Among roping, riding and caring for animals and the land, Gary taught his family to love with discipline and caring. From the very beginning, he dedicated his children to God and encouraged them to explore the beauty of the gospels. Gary was immersed in the Christian community that would be his lifelong devotion from an early age.

On Dec. 19, 2004, Gary continued his journey in God's name and became ordained as deacon of the First Southern Baptist Church in Susanville, California. His involvement with the church and his church family gave him daily joy and peace. Gary was kind, dedicated and often seemed to be

amused by a secret joke that only he knew. He always made the time to answer a question or solve a problem, no matter how big or small, even if he had already shown you the answer multiple times. He was a man who always put other's needs ahead of his own. no matter the sacrifice to himself. He is dearly missed by his loved ones, friends and family alike. who celebrate the fact that he is at peace with his lord and his family in heaven. They take comfort

knowing that although he is in heaven, he will he walking with them every day.

Gary is survived by his wife of 50 years, Karon Hester. He is al1)o survived by his daughter, Marian Hester; son, Thomas Hester and wife, Amber; and his grandchildren, Chalsie, Levi, Morgan and Destiny.