- Date Of Birth: May 24, 1938
- Date Of Death: August 9, 2021
- State: Illinois
James D. “Jim” Hester, 83, of Alma, Illinois passed away on August 9, 2021, surrounded by the natural beauty of his family home n the loving care of his wife and best friend. Jim was born May 24, 1938, in Alma, Illinois, always maintaining strong connections in the Alma community and its history which he lovingly called home. He was the son of William Phipps “Bill” Hester and Ella Mae Egelston Florey Hester.
As a young child, Jim spent much time with his grandmother Mary Elizabeth Florey who always lived with the family, and remained very close to her his entire life. He also attended the Alma United Methodist Church in his younger years. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge and faithfully served in the United States Army. Jim worked in various places throughout his life. He retired with 16 years of service from the Marion County Housing Authority.
He married the love of his life, Mary Lou Cessna, on September 15, 2001, and she survives on their farm, along with his best buddy “Scout.” Also left to mourn his passing are Jim’s two sisters, Carolyn Sue Hulsey and Rebecca Jones, both of Kinmundy, IL. Also, his nieces and nephews are always dear to his heart, including Tara Hulsey, Kelley Hulsey, Amber Hearn, Susan Jones, Jennifer King, Matt Jones, and Brandy Smith along with their children.
In addition to his parents and grandparents, he was preceded in death by his loving niece, Heidi Ford, and brothers-in-law, Dale Hulsey and Sam Jones.
