Jeffrey Stewart Wester

Mr. Jeffrey Stewart Wester, 66, of Lillington, passed away Friday, February 20, 2026, at Transitions LifeCare in Raleigh. He was born in Harnett County, the son of the late Bobby S. Wester and Margaret Faye Nordan Wester. He was raised in a Christian home and attended Cape Fear Presbyterian Church, which his great-grandfather, Nathan Wester, and other community leaders founded in 1912.

Growing up, he loved spending time outdoors with friends and family, enjoying fishing, hunting, and camping. From an early age, he developed a strong work ethic while helping support the family farm. Working alongside his father and uncle, he spent countless hours tending the land, driving tractors, and operating farm equipment. Those years on the farm shaped not only his skill with machinery but also his sense of responsibility, perseverance, and pride in an honest day's work. Jeff graduated from Lillington High School in 1977, where he was actively involved in athletics such as football, basketball, and weightlifting.

After high school, he began a career operating heavy equipment and later started driving his own tractor-trailer across the country. Once he married his wife, Darlene, he established his own business, Lightning Loader Service, specializing in transporting heavy equipment between job sites. He later hauled logs for the timber industry and went on to drive for Valley Protein.

Jeff was a devoted and loving husband and a proud father to Cody, who was truly the apple of his eye. He cherished his family deeply, and together they shared many wonderful memories, from beach vacations to mountain getaways. A generous and kind-hearted man, Jeff was always willing to lend a hand or give to someone in need. Known for his sense of humor, he brought joy and laughter to those around him. He was a huge fan of Wolfpack football and basketball and enjoyed watching NASCAR and the Washington Redskins. Jeff especially loved fishing trips to the beach and simply unwinding with good friends.

Jeff is survived by his wife of 40 years, Darlene Parker Wester of Lillington; son Cody Wester of Fuquay-Varina; brothers Stephen Wester and wife Sandra of Fuquay-Varina, and Randy Wester of Lillington; and many special nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends from 12:30-1:45 p.m., and the funeral service will follow at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at Cape Fear Presbyterian Church in Lillington, NC. Burial will follow at Harnett Memorial Park in Lillington.