Lester J. Howard Jr., 66, of Walton, passed away unexpectedly Thursday, March 23, 2023 at A.O. Fox Hospital in Oneonta. Lester was born Nov. 22, 1956 in Walton, the son of Lester Howard Sr. and Barbara Ann Foster.
On June 18, 1983, he married the former Carol J. White. Lester was a medical transport driver for A & D in Oneonta until his retirement. In his younger years he was self-employed as a carpenter, specializing in roofing. In the winter months he cut and sold firewood. For 25 years Lester was a motor route driver for the Binghamton Press and Daily Star. In his spare time he was a collector of “finer things.” He had the unique ability to see potential dollar signs in others’ “junk.” He was always busy doing something when he wasn’t busy working. He was an avid hunter for most of his life and loved football season. He was a faithful Giants fan and enjoyed game days with his family.
Lester’s family was very important to him. His wife was his joy, his children were the apples of his eyes, and he treasured his grandchildren and every moment he shared with them.
Lester attended the Oneonta Assembly of God. In previous years he enjoyed serving as a Royal Ranger Commander in the Assembly of God churches in Delhi and Oneonta. He was always willing to help anyone and was a blessing to many in their times of need. He was cherished by his family and friends and will be greatly missed.
Lester is survived by his loving family, his wife Carol, mother Barbara Ann Foster of Masonville; daughters Melissa (Jeremy) Howard of Nashville, Tenn., Melinda Howard and Jonathan (Nichole) Howard of Walton; grandchildren Hadassah (Jacob), Cayden, Elijah, Isaiah, Joshua, Dallas, Liam, Christian, Julianna, Jonathan Jr., great-grandchild Hartlyn, mother-in-law Estella White of Walton; brothers Gerald and Sherry Howard, Frank and Joan Foster, sister Rose Swann, and several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
He was predeceased by his father, Lester J. Howard Sr., son Joshua Howard, an uncle, William Barnhart and best friend Kenneth Utter.
Family and friends are invited to call Saturday, April 1, from 12 noon to 1 p.m. at the Lighthouse Assembly Church, county Highway 21, Walton, where a memorial service will be held at 1 with Pastor John Grenier and Pastor Doug Harding officiating.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Courtney Funeral Home, Walton.
Memorial contributions in Lester’s memory may be made to Oneonta Assembly of God, 1667 County Road 48, Oneonta, NY 13820 or Family Life Radio, 7634 County Road 14, Bath, NY 14810.
Condolences to the family may be made at www.courtneyfh.com
