George Ronald Lester

Dr. George Ronald Lester, 89, of Salem, passed away on Friday, January 12, 2024. Born on September 6, 1934, he spent his childhood in the coal mining towns near War Eagle, W. Va., along with his parents, the late George Rush and Mary Lou (Cole) Lester, and brothers, John Lester and the late James and Richard Lester.

Dr. Lester was a graduate of Berea College and the University of Kentucky, culminating in a doctorate in physical chemistry. Following college, he, along with his family, including his four children, Julia, Kay, G. Brooke, and David, resided in Park Ridge, Ill., where he became employed with Universal Oil Products, now known as Honeywell Allied Signal. Dr. Lester dedicated a total of 38 years at Universal, where he developed the first catalysts for cleaner running automobiles and earned 42 patents. He also served as an adjunct professor for Northwestern University.

For the last 30 years, he, along with his wife, Patricia, have resided in Salem where numerous friendships were made. He has treasured his time and involvement with the Salem Presbyterian Church as well as the Opera Roanoke.

Above all, Dr. Lester adored his family and the time spent with them all. He truly enjoyed family vacations to the Outer Banks with his children and grandchildren.

Family remaining to cherish his memory includes his beloved wife, Patricia P. Lester; children, Julia, Kay, G. Brooke, and David; his bonus daughter whom he deeply cared for as his own, Cindy; brother, John Lester and numerous grandchildren.

Memorial services to honor Dr. Lester’s life will be held on Wednesday, January 24, 2024, at 11:00 a.m., at Salem Presbyterian Church, with the Rev. Chris Vogado officiating. For those unable to attend physically, you may virtually attend the service by following https://www.youtube.com/@salempresbyterianchurch8294 on Wednesday at 11 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Salem Presbyterian Church, 41 E. Main Street, Salem, Va. 24153, or to the George Ronald Lester Scholarship Fund of Berea College: https://www.berea.edu/giving (click Donate Now and indicate Other and George Ronald Lester Scholarship Fund).

Online condolences may be expressed to the Lester family by visiting www.johnmoakey.com.

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