Lester Vernon Simons

Lester Vernon Simons of Myrtle Point, born December 24, 1930, in Lebanon, Oregon, passed away on December 19, 2025, in Coquille. He was the son of William and Edna Simons. At his request, no services will be held.

Lester grew up in Lebanon and graduated from Lebanon High School in 1948. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in 1952, followed by a Master of Music degree in 1963. He later pursued advanced study at the Institute for Arts & Humanities, deepening the foundation for what would become a lifelong devotion to music and education.

On March 22, 1952, he married Marvin Jo Simons, beginning a year partnership marked by love, family, and shared purpose.

A gifted and highly accomplished clarinetist, Lester dedicated more than three decades to music education as Music Teacher and Supervisor at Myrtle Point High School (1952–1985). He also taught and directed the University of Oregon High School Summer Music Sessions, inspiring countless young musicians. His leadership extended statewide through his service as Chairman of District 7 of the Oregon Music Educators Association (1955–1956, 1959–1960). In 1988, he received the Distinguished Music Educator Award from the Northwest Bandmasters Association, a testament to his profound impact on music education in Oregon.

After retiring from teaching, Lester founded LS Music, continuing to support school and community music programs with the same dedication that defined his career. His passion for performance endured as well. He was a charter member of the Bay Area Community Band from its founding in 1976 as the Coos Bicentennial Concert Band through 2019. He also played with the Myrtle Point–Coquille Community Band and spent several years performing in an acclaimed woodwind quintet.

Beyond music, Lester was deeply engaged in his community as an active member of the Rotary Club and the Elks. He enjoyed traveling, camping, and hunting, and his journeys took him across Asia, Europe, and North America-including a memorable trip to Morocco to visit his daughter in law's family.

Lester is survived by his sons, Martin Simons of Austin, Texas; Greg Simons of Myrtle Point; and David Simons and daughter in law Fatima Simons of Gulfport, Mississippi; along with numerous nieces, nephews, and many loving friends.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Marvin Jo Simons; his parents, William and Edna Simons; his brothers, Leonard and Lyle; and daughter in law Betty Simons.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Bay Area Community Band, the Rotary Club of Myrtle Point, or the Myrtle Point Senior Center, organizations that reflect the values and community spirit Lester carried throughout his life.