Gilbert Hester

Amory – Gilbert Hester, 91, died on Tuesday, July 16, 2013, at his residence. Born on August 23, 1921, in Monroe County, he was a son of the late Gillie and Irene Ridings Hester.

Mr. Hester attended Bigbee Schools. He honorably served in the Pacific Theater during World War II in the US Army. Mr. Hester was a farmer and was Amory’s first animal control officer. He was of the Primitive Baptist faith. Generous and having a deep love for animals, Mr. Hester enjoyed Cricket, his special pet of 17 years, horses, and taking in strays. He was a member of the VFW and a supporter of law enforcement and nonprofit children’s organizations. Mr. Hester enjoyed helping others, fishing, gardening, doing work on his tractor, construction work, and Country music.

He is survived by his daughters, Carolyn Woods Hester and Tammy Ann Burks (Phil) of Amory; sister, Mary Sue Dale (John), Savannah, TN; grandchildren, Shannon Burks, Amory and Jason Burks, Germantown, TN; great-grandson, Reese Burks; several nieces and nephews; and special friend, Anna Doris Culver, Verona.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Mildred Jeffreys Hester; sister, Marie Jones; and brothers, Charlie and Herman Hester.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 3 PM, Thursday, July 18 at E. E. Pickle Funeral Home with Bro. Dempsey Rowland officiating. Honorary pallbearers will be Fred Brown, Roger Dean, Carl Sneed, Lamar Hood, Eddie Reed, Greg Presley, Mel DuBois, Thomas Griffith, Don Crawley, Charlie Pearson, Billy Tate, Tommy Timms, David Dykes, Jimbo Dykes, and Rabbit Kennedy.

Visitation will be from 5 – 8 on Wednesday at the funeral home.

Memorials may be given to Amory Humane Society, 1317 Old Hwy. 6, Amory, MS 38821.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at eepicklefuneralhome.com.