Shirley Darlene Lester's Obituary
Shirley Darlene Lester, of rural Welch, OK, passed away Saturday, December the 28th, 2024, after a period of declining health, while surrounded by her family. She was 80 years old.
She was born September the 27, 1944, in rural Welch, OK to Lloyd and Stella (Peck) Tullis. She was a graduate of Welch High School. On June the 15th, 1962, she married Bill Lester, the love of her life.
For many years, she was a rural mail carrier for the post office in Chetopa, KS. After retirement, she cherished spending more time with her family and caring for her home.
She loved sewing, fishing, and golfing. She was a long time, faithful member of the Welch Baptist Church where she was active in vacation bible school and women's ministry.
She was preceded in death by her parents; a stillborn sister; and a sister- in-law, Linda Tullis.
She is survived by her husband of 62 years, Bill, of the home; two children, Nicky Casey and husband Dennis of Haskell, OK, and Troy Lester and wife Mandy of Welch; a brother, Dale Tullis of Welch; six grandchildren, Brandi Thomas (Dennis), Zech Edwards, Kallie Pierce (Trevor), Jessie Casey, Clayton Lester, and Aubrie Lester; six great grandchildren, Harper, Ellie, Berkley, William, Raiden, and Scottie Joe; and several nieces and nephews.
The family will receive friends from 5-7 p.m. Monday, December the 30th, at the Welch Baptist Church. Services will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, December the 31st, also at the church. Pastors Bob Whitchurch and John Foley will officiate. Burial will follow in the GAR Cemetery in Miami.
Casket bearers will be Dewayne Wallace, Herbie Gamble, Jason Cherry, Monte Langley, Bob Eubanks, and Hank Walton.
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