Ronald E. Jester

Obituary of Ronald E. Jester

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Ronald Eugene Jester went to be with his Lord and Savior on January 24, 2026, in Madison, Mississippi. Ronnie, as he was affectionately called by family and friends, was born on January 14, 1946, in Jennings, Louisiana.

In 1952, his family relocated to Lambert, Mississippi, and in November of 1963, Ronnie married the love of his life, Pauline Trainor. Together they shared more than six decades of joy, walking hand in hand through life's challenges. Ronnie was a 1968 graduate of Mississippi State University, earning a degree in Agriculture, Engineering, Technology, and Business. He went on to work for the John Deere Company, where he enjoyed a fulfilling career spanning 32 years.

Ronnie's four grandsons and four great-grandchildren brought him immense joy. He never missed one of their sporting events, plays, or other activities. His grandsons counted him as their best friend, as Ronnie was always available to listen, encourage, and guide when needed.

In addition to his family, Ronnie was passionate about maintaining his home. One of his favorite hobbies was working in his yard. His children fondly remember friends jokingly asking if he cut the grass with scissors, because it always looked perfect. Another great passion of his was Mississippi State sports-he often recorded games so he could watch them multiple times.

Ronnie leaves behind two children, Rhonda Jester Newell (John) and J. Todd Jester; four grandchildren, Matthew B. Holcomb (Lauren), Christopher F. Holcomb (Heather), Ryan P. Holcomb, and Hunter P. Newell; four great-grandchildren, Owen M. Holcomb, Anne Parker Holcomb, Alana Childress, and Cruz Childress; and two siblings, Arnold G. Jester and Charlotte J. Dickson.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James A. Jester and Azalea G. Jester; his wife, Pauline T. Jester; and his sister, Evanna J. Ruth (Chuck).

Family and friends are invited to gather on Friday, February 6, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. in the Community Center of First Baptist Church of Madison. On Saturday, February 7, 2026, visitation will be held at Natchez Trace Funeral Home from 9:00 a.m. until 10:00 a.m., followed by a service celebrating Ronnie's life at 10:00 a.m. in the chapel. Interment will follow at First Marks Cemetery in Marks, Mississippi.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.