Joseph "Jody" Hester

Joseph Neal Hester, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully September 1, 2025. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph M. and Julia Faye Hester; his son, Sean Hester; his brother, Jack Hester; his sister, Jennifer Olive; his niece, Whitney Olive; his father-in-law, Hugh Thompson. He is survived by his devoted wife of 36 years, Kim Hester; his children, Chris (Elisa) Hester, Tisha (Adam) Duckworth, Tyler Hester, and Noah Hester (Nicole Rodriguez); his sister, Julie (Hugh) Hester; mother-in-law Barbara Thompson; his sister-in-law, Deb Hester; and his brother-in-law lifelong best friend and “bro,” Scott Thompson, along with Scott’s wife, Teresa Thompson. Brother-in-law Dennis Olive. He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren: Luke and Madi Hester, Cason Hester, Drew (Courtney) Duckworth, Dyllan (Carleigh) Duckworth, and Halle (Robert) Raines. His legacy continues through his great-grandchildren: Tobias and Amelia Duckworth, Grayson Duckworth, and Ryker Raines, as well as many nieces and nephews who loved him dearly. A proud veteran, Joseph served in the United States Navy as an electronics and missile technician aboard the USS Sierra during the Vietnam War. So eager was the Navy to enlist his talents that his paperwork arrived during his senior year of high school. His service reflected his dedication to duty, his strength, and his deep love for his country. Outside of service and family, Joseph was known for his sharp wit, his loyalty to Alabama football, and his playful role as a “self-appointed assistant coach” for the Crimson Tide. Though he often proclaimed himself an armchair quarterback, after Alabama’s first game this year, he humorously “retired early” and switched to watching soccer, despite his well-known dislike for the sport. His humor and love for sports brightened the lives of all who knew him. He would say you know you forgot to say this about me or add this story… here let me do it Joseph Neal Hester will be remembered for his devotion to family, his enduring friendships, his service to his country, and his ability to bring laughter into every room. His presence will be deeply missed, but his memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.

Joseph "Jody" Hester

October 3, 1951 - September 1, 2025