John Frank Lester

John Frank Lester passed from this life into the arms of Jesus early Tuesday morning, September 21, 2021 in Princeton, WV after a short illness. Born September 4, 1943 in Gary, WV he was the youngest child born to Douglas and Mary Roberts Lester who preceded him in death. John was a proud Vietnam veteran serving in the Marine Corp. He loved NASCAR and football. He always knew how to put a smile on your face. He loved telling jokes, and being funny. He wanted people to feel good about themselves and was always encouraging. He was Pawpaw to anyone that needed a Pawpaw and he dearly loved his 7 children, and all the grands and great grands and we loved him and were not ready for him to go. In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by his brothers Jerry K. Lester of Petersburg, VA and Donald R. Lester of Gladesprings, VA. Surviving John is his wife who he referred to as "his first love", Joyce Barnette Thomas Lester, his teenage sweetheart who became his beloved bride in May of this year. He is also survived by his siblings, Doug Lester/Pauline of Mt. Carmel, TN and Elizabeth Boyer of Elbert, WV. Also his children, Robert Allen Lester/Sandra of Randleman, NC, Kenny Ray Mcgaha/Kazzy of Sophia, NC and Victoria Lynn McGaha/Ron of Sophia, NC. His little angel KenBer Rose McGaha and 4 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. When he married Joyce or "Mommy" as he lovingly called her, he became Papa John to her children, Kathy Ann Payne/Ronnie of Bluefield, WV and Boones Mill, VA, David Thomas of Bluefield, WV, Rev. Joey Thomas/Tammy of Bayard, WV and Gerri Sizemore of Bluefield, WV, 9 grandchildren and 21 great grandchildren. Following his wishes he has been cremated. Family will receive friends on Saturday, October 23, 2021 at Cravens-Shires Funeral Home from 11:00-1:00 PM at the funeral home. Craven Shires Funeral Home is handling all the arrangements. Online condolences will be accepted at www.cravens-shires.com. Cravens-Shires Funeral Home in Bluewell is serving the Lester family.