Mr. Anthony J. "Toasty" Lester

UTICA – Mr. Anthony J. "Toasty" Lester, age 43, unexpectedly went home to be with his Lord on Friday, December 19, 2025.

Born in Utica on March 22, 1982, Anthony was the son of Lizzie Lester and the late James E. Spann. He was raised locally and received his education at Kernan Elementary School and T.R. Proctor High School. At one time, he held a position in waste management.

Over the course of his life, Anthony built meaningful relationships that shaped the family he cherished most. He shared an early relationship with Malikah Harrison, from which he welcomed a son. He later partnered with Ella Neal, and together they were proud parents of two sons. Another son was born during his time with Vintryce Freeman, further expanding his family. In 2009, Toasty married the former Ginger Holmes, and during their time together they created many meaningful memories. At the time of his passing, he was in a caring and supportive relationship with Janae Wright.

Anthony had a way of lighting up the room. Even when his playful nature pushed buttons, it was never long before laughter followed. He carried a lighthearted spirit, always ready for whatever came next, and rarely passed up an opportunity to enjoy life. His humor, quick wit, and confidence made him memorable wherever he went, often becoming the life of any gathering.

Music was one of his great joys, especially R&B and rap. Above all else, he proudly embraced being his mother's son, wearing the title of "Momma's boy" with love and devotion. Though only 43, Toasty was an old soul. He believed in showing up, standing firm, and offering steady support-qualities reflected in Proverbs 17:17, where true connection is proven not in comfort, but in hardship.

Anthony is survived by his wife, Ginger; mother, Lizzie Mae Lester; sons, Deshanta Reed Harrison, Lameeke Lester, Jahmir Neal, and Jahmai Adkins; and grandchildren, La-nae Harrison Reed, Syncere Harrison Reed, and Jay'anii Harrison Reed. He also leaves behind his sisters, Donesa Spann, Nicole Lester, and Tequilla Lester, and cherished the memory of his sister, Delilah Spann.

Anthony will be fondly remembered by his brothers, Jerome Lester, James Spann, Jr., Micah Spann, Joseph Spann, and Marcus Spann. He is further survived by a large and loving host of nieces and nephews, including Paschelle Lester, Lyndell Lester, Asia Lester, Shayna Lester, Starquasia Gilmore, Treyvon Gilmore, Jayvon Gilmore, Enariyana Holley, and Quamire Holley; a wide and cherished circle of great-nieces and great-nephews, among them Sariah Lester, Zyonn Lester, Kamarion Lester, and Andre Lester; aunts and uncles, with special acknowledgment to John and Josephine Asbell, Cynthia Cobbs, Mary Starling, and Marilyn Jackson; cousins; goddaughter, Schwanika Rogers; and "God Daddy," Tommie King. Toasty also walked through life with a great many friends, including his best friend of 27 years, Ulysses Jamel Rodriguez Lewis, Lashawn "Shizz" Tillery, Kaya Rodisha Patterson, Michael "Mike" and Crystal Venettozzi, Jihad "Hood" Perkins, Nikita "Chocolate" Rodriguez, Denisha and Cassandra "Tumbleweed" Ruffin, Sin-away, Clifford Gary, James "Jimmer" Wilson, cousin Jerome Lester, Christine "Loon" Lester, Zockier "Zeek" Green, Rusmir Ferhatovic, Antwuan "Tweezy" Perkins, "Vic" Roberts, Ray Williams, Amanda Reed, Misheena "Sheena" Watson, Shakeeta "Keet" King, Nakita Watson, David "Boogs" Kittrell, Brenda Rodriguez, whom was like a second mom to him, Chanel King, Eulace Booker, Jinita Frazier, Ya'nissa Watson, Anna Lang (his Sis); Janae's siblings, Lateshia, Tiera, Junior, Antwon Wright; the Neal and Watkins families: Tasha, Mika, Keisha, and Danny "D Block," Jermaine; Evita Green, Harmonica Washington, Jovan McCovery, Emmanuel "Black" Reed-Henderson, and "Rell" Prince.

Anthony was additionally predeceased by his maternal grandparents, John Sr. and Rosamae (Lester) Dawson; paternal grandparents, Eddie and Mae Scott-Spann; and beloved uncles, George Lester and Carl Lester. He cherished the memories of Marques "Bundles" Williams, David "Diddy" Davis, Faronnie "Faron" Robinson, Carrie Patterson, and Latisha Rogers.

The family wishes to extend their gratitude to Janae Wright, Lanijah Bell, as well as to the staff of Wynn Hospital for their care and compassion.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, January 3, 2026, from 2:00-4:00 p.m., at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Anthony's Home Going Service and Celebration of Life will commence at 4:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Those who are unable to attend may be present virtually at https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86047436119. Interment will take place in Forest Hill Cemetery at the convenience of the family.