D. Eugene Hester

D. Eugene Hester, 81, born in Cumberland County, to the late Homer Dewey Hester and Sabra Bright Hester, passed away January 24, 2024. 

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife, Rhonda Taylor Hester and sisters, Betty Kinlaw and Elizabeth Thompson.

He is survived by his sister, Sylvia Dean and husband Howard; daughter, DeAnn Hodges and husband Tommie; sons, Brent Hester and Brian Hester; stepson, Kelly Galloway and wife Dawn; stepdaughter, Teresa Galloway; grandchildren, Justin Hodges and wife Ashley, Megan Bowlby and husband Daniel, Ryan Hester and wife Madison, and Derrick Galloway; six great-grandchildren, Tyler, Taylor, and Tinley Hodges; Colton Bowlby; Jensen and Juniper Hester; several nieces and nephews, and a host of other family and friends.

Throughout his life, he embodied the values of faith, education, and sportsmanship. 

He was a lifelong member of the Hope Mills Church of God, where he served as a former choir director and Sunday School Superintendent. 

As an educator with Cumberland County School Systems, D. Eugene Hester made a lasting impact on countless young minds. Working at Brentwood Elementary before spending most of his educational career at Hope Mills Middle School, he inspired generations to embrace their education with enthusiasm and curiosity.

In addition to his contributions in the classroom, D. Eugene Hester also demonstrated his commitment to shaping the character of young individuals through coaching football. He selflessly volunteered as a coach at the same field where he had once played as a quarterback. He not only imparted valuable athletic skills but also taught valuable life lessons such as teamwork, perseverance, and sportsmanship.

He was a dedicated individual who left an indelible mark on the lives he touched.  He will be cherished and missed by his family, friends, community, and all those who knew and loved him.