Byron Hester

Hester ~ Byron Hester was born September 20, 1961, in Jacksonville, Florida to Peter and Ruby Hester. He attended and graduated from Jean Ribault High School. Byron later attended Florida Community College at Jacksonville (now Florida State College at Jacksonville) where he received an associate’s degree and later attended Antioch University in Yellow Springs, Ohio where he received a Bachelor of Arts degree.

Byron was employed with Banner Food Store for several years. He later decided to join the U S Navy where he received several accommodations; he retired after many years of honorable service.

Byron played in a neighborhood band with his friends, and many would say he played music like the Isley Brothers.  He had a love of painting on canvas. Byron enjoyed talking with others in very deep conversations.   He visited with family members often.  Byron was also known for fashion as he dressed very well.

Byron was preceded in death by his parents, Peter and Ruby Hester; brothers, Terry Hester, Robin Hester; sisters, Georgeann Hester, Valerie Hester, Sue Thompson.  He leaves to cherish his memory, brother, Lucious Hester; sisters, Jacquelyn Akins Colleton, PhD, Minister Gloria Sheppard; aunt, Alice Hester of Monticello, Florida; a host of loving relatives and friends. 

Though he is no longer with us in body, his spirit and legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Celebration of Life service for Byron Hester will be 11:00AM Friday, October 17, 2025, at The Soutel Chapel.  Because of the love of his family, arrangements entrusted to J. E. Fralin & Sons Funeral & Cremation Services, 5065 Soutel Drive, 904-924-9400

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Byron Hester, please visit our floral store.