Gerald Ray Hester

Gerald Ray Hester, age 75, of Russellville, passed away on Wednesday, June 15, 2022 at Russellville Hospital. Gerald Ray Hester was born October 2, 1946 in Belgreen, Alabama. Gerald was a loving husband of 51 years to his wife Kathy. He leaves behind so many who love and miss him dearly: two daughters Andrea Leigh Hester Rice (Dan) and Amy Elizabeth Hester Overby (Brent). His grandchildren, Gibson Cooper Overby, Emery Jane Overby and Fletcher Benson Overby. He was a beloved brother to five siblings Betty Jo Hooper, William T (Bill) Hester, Ann Taylor, Sue Taylor, and Wayne Hester (Carolyn), Brother-in-law to Neal Taylor (Pam), nephew to Martha Lindsey and uncle to a host of nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and great-nephews. He treasured the time spent with his grandchildren in sports, fishing, boating, riding the gator, and vacationing. "Grand" was his name and spoiling them was his game. He was also known for his hospitality and culinary skills hosting numerous fish fries and grilling for family and friends. He graduated from Belgreen High School in 1964 and graduated from Florence State College (now known as the University of North Alabama) in 1968 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration and Biology. He was a licensed Realtor and certified with the Institute of Financial Education. Gerald was a Senior Vice-President and Real Estate Loan Officer at the Russellville Main Office of Citizens Bank and Savings Company, now known as CB&S Bank. He devoted nearly 47 years serving his customers and the bank. Prior to this, he was a Math and Science Teacher at Belgreen High School and a Sales Manager for Field Enterprises Education Corporation in Chicago, Illinois. Gerald was a faithful member of Belgreen church of Christ serving as Treasurer, Bible class teacher and song leader. He exemplified service to the community through various organizations including: Founding member of the Belgreen Fire Department and volunteer fireman, charter member of Russellville Kiwanis Club, Franklin County Board of Education and served for 18 years with six of those as Chairman of the Board, member of Bear Creek Development Authority Board, member of the American Cancer Society- Cancer Board, Franklin County Cattleman's Association and served as member and past-president of the Northwest Shoals Community College Foundation. One of his most recent endeavors included regularly working out with his friends at the Rock Steady Boxing Club of Florence Alabama - a fitness group dedicated to fighting back against Parkinson's disease. A funeral service will be held at Spry Funeral Home Chapel in Russellville, Alabama on Saturday, June 18th with visitation beginning at 11:30 am and service to follow at 2:00 pm. Burial will follow at Belgreen Cemetery. Pallbearers will be; Jack Hester, Roger Boyd, Jacob Greene, Brent Hester, Jacob Hester and Brock Hester. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to: Parkinson's Association of Alabama, Rustic Youth Camp or the American Cancer Society. Spry Memorial Chapel assisted the family. To have us sign the book for you, please free to call or to leave private condolences, please visit our website at www.sprymemorialchapel.com.

Gerald Ray Hester

October 2, 1946 - June 15, 2022

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