Alice M. Jester

1942 - 2024

Alice M. Jester, 82, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and occasional teller of tall tales, departed peacefully on Saturday, December 21, 2024, in Plano, Texas, after a brief illness.

Born to Lorraine (Sawyer) and John Gough on January 25, 1942, in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, she attended public and parochial schools, graduating from Pittsfield High School in 1959. In 1951, Alice and her parents moved to Lanesborough. It was there that fate introduced her to a young, handsome grocer, Irving "Irv" Jester. Alice's frequent trips for eggs and milk finally paid off when Irv mustered the courage to ask her on a date. Thus began a love story spanning more than 55 years, marked by laughter, loyalty, and a shared affection for good food and great company. They married in September 1959 and built a family and a lifetime of memories.

Alice's life was an inspiring blend of humor, heart, and unshakable spirit. A gifted writer, Alice channeled her wit and warmth into crafting delightful pieces for The Berkshire Eagle's Sunday Sampler, inspired by her family's adventures. She was a talented seamstress and had a knack for turning the everyday into the extraordinary.

She was the ultimate cheerleader, showing up with boundless enthusiasm for her family at school events and sports games. She stayed fiercely loyal to the Boston Red Sox, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Terry Bradshaw. Proudly, Alice never received a speeding ticket.

In her working years as a teller, she endured three bank robberies. Alice also dedicated herself to the Daley Agency, Hillcrest Hospital, and Berkshire Medical Center. Retirement didn't slow her down-it simply shifted her focus to her family and her loyal canine companion, Colette.

Summers found Alice and Irv at their second home enjoying the ocean breeze of Wells, Maine, where they frequented her favorite spot, Nubble Lighthouse.

Alice leaves behind her five children, Mark (Christine), Kevin (Lisa), Bryan (Karen), Dianne, and Michelle Jester, along with eleven grandchildren, twelve great-grandchildren, and a host of friends. Predeceased by her husband Irv in 2014, her father John Gough, her parents James and Lorraine Reardon, and her great-grandson Anthony "Tony" Maschino in 2016, Alice's family tree is a testament to her life well-lived.

To the staff at Medical City Hospital, Encompass Rehabilitation Hospital, and everyone who supported Alice and her family, we extend our heartfelt gratitude. The family would especially like to acknowledge the special friendship, love, and care of Larry and Vonette Walker of Rockwall, Texas.

Alice's legacy-rich with love, humor, and the occasional stubborn streak-will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew her. We hope she is sharing laughter with Irv and knows she will be deeply missed.

FUNERAL NOTICE: A Liturgy of Christian Burial will be held, Saturday, January 4, 2025 at 9 a.m. at St. Agnes Church, celebrated by Rev. Christopher Malatesta, Pastor. Burial will follow in St. Joseph Cemetery. Calling hours will be held, Friday, January 3, 2025 from 4 to 7 p.m. at Dery Funeral Home, 54 Bradford St, PITTSFIELD. The family kindly requests donations to Alex's Lemonade Stand in lieu of flowers, a cause close to Alice's heart in her quest to see every child thrive.