John Reid Hester

John Reid Hester, 38, passed away at his home on Monday, January 5, 2026, due to complications of an illness. He was born on June 1, 1987, to Bobby Hester and Stephanie Fritz, and was the second of six children.

While in high school, John enjoyed wrestling and had the prestigious honor of being the valedictorian of his graduating class. He started his love for mechanics working alongside his Dad before joining the Marine Corps. John had an amazing career while serving in the Marines, having many operations as military police, escorting convoys in Al-Fallujah and Ramadi in Iraq, and becoming a Lance Corporal. After his military service, John attended the NASCAR Technical Institute, where he became a Senior Master Technician for Ford Motor Company. He also enjoyed being a Lieutenant for the local fire department before becoming wheelchair bound. This never slowed him down as he outfitted his workshop, where he had several hobbies that kept him busy, hydro-dipping, making stickers and decals with a Cricket machine, welding, and always kept up with all handyman tasks

He never stopped loving his children and his family and developed a strong bond with them, as well as Ghost, his emotional support dog, who will miss him dearly. We will always love you, and you will forever be in our hearts.

John is preceded in death by his youngest brother, Jesse, and his paternal grandparents.

He is survived by his wife, Maria Ryan Hester; his 3 beautiful children; a step-son; as well as many other family members and friends who loved him dearly.

A funeral service with military honors will be held at 2:00PM on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at the Western Carolina State Veterans Cemetery in Black Mountain, NC.

Crawford / Ray Funeral Home and Cremation Service is deeply honored to be caring for the Hester family.