Gerald "Jerry" Lester

With a gentle touch of faith and love, we honor and celebrate the life of Gerald “Jerry” James Lester, who peacefully transitioned to his heavenly home on February 1, 2026, in Des Moines, Iowa, at the age of 80.

Jerry was born on July 9, 1945, in Webster City, Iowa. His life was a testament to the boundless power of love, faith, and devotion to family. He will be remembered for his generous heart, quiet strength, and the deep care he showed to those around him.

Jerry is lovingly survived by his children: John (Julie) Smart, Gerald Lester Jr., Terry Bacon, Wendy (Donny) Reinig, Kristina (Richard) Blair, Charity (Michael) Hansen, Anthony (Sarah) Lester, and Tammie (Mark) Hermosillo, along with more than 20 grandchildren, many cherished great-grandchildren, his brothers: Carrol (Babe), Frank, Robert, and Richard, and many extended family members and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his beloved bride, Diane Lester, his parents, Frank and Marian Lester, his grandparents, and his siblings: Francis, Helen, Larry, Clifford, and Vernon.

Jerry’s career involved working earlier in life for The Cab Company, followed by many years as a semi-truck driver with multiple companies, most notably Rosenberger/Katana and later GATR. Jerry truly enjoyed driving, whether it was for work or taking trips to spend time with family. He enjoyed many of life’s simple blessings, whether watching a Pittsburg Steeler Game on TV or gathered around fellowshipping with Friends and Family. He loved playing in bands throughout his life—from the old days in taverns to jamming with friends and family over the years. Singing gospel music held a special place in his heart, and he cherished every opportunity to be part of worship bands at church. Jerry also enjoyed playing pool, most recently spending Sundays with his brother. Above all, he loved spending time with his grandbabies, children, and loved ones. Jerry found great comfort in reading his Bible, and he never missed an opportunity to share his faith with anyone he came in contact with, often giving out his cherished baby Jesus’.

Services for Jerry will be held with a visitation on Friday, February 6, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Hamilton’s Funeral Home, 605 Lyon Street, Des Moines, Iowa.

A funeral service will take place on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., also at Hamilton’s Funeral Home, followed by burial at Laurel Hill Cemetery.

A luncheon and reception will follow the burial at Sundry Church, 4100 6th Avenue, Des Moines, Iowa.

Those wishing to express sympathy, in lieu of flowers, are kindly asked to send memorials to Hamilton’s Funeral Home for the family.

Print