Willie James Hester was born in Tift County, Tifton Georgia, February 25, 1927 to the late Frank and Irene (Ward) Hester.
He loved music and was a dynamic singer. In his youth, he was one of the lead singers of the group The Delcos.
Willie James worked at United States Steel Clariton works, retiring after 30 years of service.
He was joined in matrimony to Blanche Turner May 13, 1944. To their union of 56 years were born 8 children.
Willie James departed this life on March 21, 2023. He was predeceased by his wife Blanche, father Frank, mother Irene, his siblings (Johnnie Lee, Francis, Neal, Frank Jr and Ernest Lee). Children, Brenda Ferguson, Sandra Irene I, Willie James Jr., Betty Daniels and Vanester Lamar Hester. Sons in Law, Wilbur Ferguson and Alvin Brown.
He is survived by his children, Jauneline Hardy, Sandra Brown, Charmayne Hester, Dolores Glass and Debra Pratt (Stan). A host of grand, great and great-great grandchildren and relatives.
The family acknowledges and thanks his long time friend and care giver Karen Garuch.