Barbara Lester

Barbara Jones Lester, much loved mother, sister, aunt, cousin and friend, passed away on January 28, 2025 in Sayre, Pennsylvania.

She is survived by her daughter, Christine Lester, brother, Bill (Fred William) Jones, sister Elizabeth and (Eugene) Helmetsie, nieces, Jessica Jones, Rebecca and (Rick) Dann and nephew, Brad (and Alison) Helmetsie, two great-nephews and two great-nieces and thirteen cousins. She was predeceased by her parents Grace Hodges Jones and Merritt. D. Jones.

She retired as a paralegal from Eaton Corporation in Cleveland, Ohio after 20+ years. Upon retirement, Barbara moved back to her home town in Spencer, New York. She served as Village of Spencer Court Clerk, Village of Spencer Court Judge, and Town of Spencer Court Clerk. Her love of books and reading led her to being the Director of Spencer Library for over 10 years. After retiring from the library, she continued to volunteer by choosing books for purchase.

Barbara was the Treasurer for the Evergreen Cemetery, Spencer, New York and past Treasurer for the Spencer Historical Society. She also was past president of the Spencer Central School Alumni Association.

Barbara loved attending Cleveland Indians games while living in Cleveland and continued to be a fan for all Cleveland pro teams after moving to Spencer. She enjoyed knitting and counted cross-stitch.

She loved hosting family and friend gatherings at her home. Neighborhood friends would often drop by for "porch parties" in the summer. She was a wise and caring person who will be greatly missed.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 on February 8th at Christ the King Fellowship Presbyterian on Main Street in Spencer with Rev. Sabrina Slater leading the service.

Allen Manzer Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.