Peggy Lynn Lester

Peggy Lynn Lester age 64 of New Hampton died Sunday, August 3, 2025 at her home, surrounded by her family. Friends may greet the family from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Friday, August 8, 2025 at Hugeback-Johnson Funeral Home & Crematory in New Hampton. 641-394-4334. Born on February 22, 1961, Peggy was the eldest of eight children born to Norbert and Betty (Ries) Jenn. She grew up near North Washington, Iowa, where her family were devoted members of Immaculate Conception Church. Peggy attended New Hampton Schools, graduating with the Class of 1979. It was at a dance at Galactica in Charles City where Peggy met the love of her life, Scott Lester. After a memorable night on the dance floor - and a double date with Peggy's sister Laura and her husband Ron - a love story began that would last a lifetime. The two were married on November 26, 1983, at Immaculate Conception Church in North Washington. Together, they raised three children: Beau, Blaine, and Raegan. Peggy's warmth and bright personality made her a beloved figure wherever she went. The couple lived in New Hampton and later near the Jenn family farm, where Peggy began working at Ray's Tap in Ionia. Over the years, she also served at the Pub and Klunders, where she truly shined. Peggy loved being a waitress - not just for the work itself, but for the joy of meeting new people, sharing stories, and making each person feel welcome. People came from all over not just for a meal, but for Peggy's smile, her kindness, and her attention to detail. She genuinely cared about creating a great experience for others, and her presence made people feel at home. Later in life, Peggy and Scott moved to Cedar Rapids and spent time in Arizona, always making friends and forming deep, lasting connections wherever they landed. No matter where life took them, they brought joy with them - a reflection of Peggy's vibrant and loving spirit. Peggy was known for her love of cleaning and decorating - always in motion, always making things brighter and more beautiful. She helped decorate homes and businesses in town and had an incredible eye for creating welcoming spaces. She especially loved spending time outdoors, often traveling with her family to Waterville, MN for fishing trips filled with bullhead dinners, laughter, and treasured memories. Most of all, Peggy cherished her role as a grandmother. Watching her grandkids grow, cheering them on at their sporting events, and sharing special traditions brought her endless joy. One of those traditions was searching for naturally occurring heart shapes - in rocks, clouds, or wherever they appeared. Her grandchildren now carry on that sweet practice, always looking for hearts and remembering her love in every one they find. Peggy was a ray of sunshine in the lives of all who knew her - a woman of kindness, strength, joy, and boundless love. She leaves behind a family who adored her and a community who will miss her deeply. Peggy is survived by her husband Scott Lester of New Hampton; two sons, Beau (Ashley) Lester of New Hampton, Blaine (Megan) Lester of New Hampton; one daughter, Raegan Lester of New Hampton; four grandchildren, Capri Lester, Jet Lester, Maya Lester, Dominic Lester; two brothers, Kevin (Chris) Jenn of Amherst, NE, Kyle (Jennifer) Jenn of Tiffin, IA; five sisters, Laura (Ron) Frantzen of Ames, Tracey (Tim) Wilson of Colfax, IA, Kerry Blackman of Des Moines, Torri Jenn of Cedar Rapids, IA, Krista (Ronnie) Blocklinger of Cedar Rapids; many nieces, nephews and dear friends. Peggy played a special role in the legacy of the Sammy Foundation in memory of her nephew Samuel Blocklinger. She was preceded in death by her parents.