Richard A. "Rick" Lester

LTC Richard "Rick" A. Lester, 74, retired US Army aviator and Vietnam War veteran, of Marietta, GA passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 13, 2022. Born in Marietta, GA to Stanley and Betty Lester, Rick graduated from Warner Robins High School in 1966 and earned a bachelor's degree from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Rick served his country heroically as a US Army soldier, and retired honorably after 26 years. He received numerous awards for distinguished service, including the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Legion of Merit, the Bronze Star Medal, and multiple Air Medals. A gifted storyteller with a zest for adventure, Rick carried and enormous presence, and his charisma was inspiring. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather and son, and his presence will be forever missed. Rick is survived by his wife of 51 years, Jane Lester of Marietta, GA; children Taryn Coleman (Ryan) and Lt. Col. Jonathan Lester (Bethany); grandchildren Avery and Roman Lester; and mother, Betty Lester of Warner Robins, GA. He is preceded in death by his father, MSgt. Stanley Lester, and brothers James and Stan Lester.

A visitation will be held on Friday, January 27, 2023, from 10:00AM - 11:00AM at Mayes Ward-Dobbins Macland Chapel in Powder Springs, Georgia. The memorial service will follow at 11:00AM. Interment at the Georgia National Cemetery in Canton, Georgia will take place at 3:00PM following the service.