James Carl Lester was born on August 2, 1935, to William and Myrtle Lester. He was a longtime member of the Emmanuel Baptist Church.

James passed away on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at the age of 90. He was reunited with his parents; his wife of 59 years, Nelda Lester; his brothers, LC and Fred Lester; his sisters, Doris Mae Brunner and Burt Pearson; his daughters, Ramona Ballew and Rhonda Gaudin; and his granddaughter, Tiffany Cole.

Left to cherish his memory are his sons, Brian Lester and wife Tosha, and Jimmy Lester; his daughter, Debbie Hyman; his brothers-in-law, Ken Holder and wife Mary Nell, and John Holder; 10 grandchildren; 33 great-grandchildren; 5 great-great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A visitation for James will be held Friday, May 22, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Emmanuel Baptist Church, followed by a celebration of life beginning at 2:00 PM. The burial will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a contribution be made to Emmanuel Baptist Church at 5850 Buncombe Road, Shreveport, LA 71129.