Larry E. Lester

Larry E. Lester, 75, of Springfield, died at 11:41 am, Sunday, June 5, 2016 at his home. He was born October 13, 1940 in Girard, to Earl Ernest and Lyda M. Fouts Lester Cowell. He is survived by his wife, Jo Ann White, whom he married October 5, 1979.

Also surviving are one step daughter, Michelle (Harry) Coffin of Springfield; five grandchildren, Joshua Michael Scott, Shelby Ann Scott, Abby Nicole Scott, Savannah Riley Coffin and Macklin Cedric Coffin; one sister, Cindy Cowell of Springfield; one brother Bill (Becky) Lester of New Mexico and several nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, step son, Michael Scott and brother, Thomas Lester.

Larry was a USMC veteran serving from September 1959 – April 1966. While stationed in Japan he was on the Marine Corps Rifle Team. He held a Masters Certificate for high powered rifle with the NRA. He received a 1st Degree Black Belt in Karate from the University of Tokyo, Japan. He worked as a Data Processing Manager for thirty-five years for the Illinois Department of Public Aid, retiring in 1998.

Visitation: 5-7 pm Thursday, June 9, 2016 at Western Oaks Baptist Church.

Funeral Service: 7 pm, Thursday, June 9, 2016 at Western Oaks Baptist Church with Pastor Josh Parsons officiating. A private family burial will be held at a later date at Old Salem Cemetery.