Bradford Lester, 65, of Statesville, N.C., passed away on Tuesday, September 28, 2021, at Iredell Memorial Hospital.

Bradford was born in Iaeger, W.Va., and was the son of the late Audrey Lester and Kathleen Murphy Lester. He attended school in Iaeger and prior to his being disabled, he worked as a surface miner with Vecilo and Grogan/HEL Coal Co.

On December 26, 1975, Bradford married Janey Thomas Lester and together they shared 45 years of marriage before his passing. In 2005, Bradford made the life-changing decision of surrendering his life to Jesus. That changed him forever.

Bradford was a quiet man who found joy in being around the home with his family. He loved his family dearly, especially his grandchildren, Hannah Lester of Mooresville and Natalie Lester of Statesville. He also loved watching Western movies, especially John Wayne and Gun Smoke. He enjoyed playing Rook, chess, and especially playing golf with his son, Jason. Those who knew him will deeply miss him.

In addition to his parents, Bradford was preceded in death by his mother-in-law, Lucy Thomas, along with a number of siblings and extended family.

Bradford leaves behind his wife Janey Lester of the home; son, Jason Lester of Statesville; and his grandchildren, Hannah and Natalie. He is also survived by two brothers, Deon Lester of Statesville and David Lester of Iaeger, W.Va., and one sister, Brenda Allen of Jonesville.

A service to celebrate the life of Bradford Lester will be conducted at 2 p.m. on Saturday, October 2, in the Nicholson Funeral Home Chapel with Brother Jimmy Rowe officiating. Burial will follow in the Iredell Memorial Gardens. The family will visit with friends for one hour prior to the service.

Online condolences can be made to the family at nicholsonfunerals.com.

Nicholson Funeral Home is honored to assist the Lester family.