Billy Fred Jester

Billy Fred Jester, age 84, of Sherwood, passed away on Monday, December 12, 2022.

He was born on December 4, 1938, in Lockesburg, the son of M.J. Jester and Lucille Jester.  He was preceded in death by his daughter, Lisa Knox; his parents; his brother, Kenneth Jester; and one brother-in-law, Gary Starling.

He was a member of Christian Fellowship in Sherwood. He achieved his master’s degree at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville.  At the young age of 16, Billy went into the military, proudly serving and fighting in Korea and was in charge of several units in Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Texas. When Billy retired, after serving for 47 years with the United States Army, he had earned the ranking as a two-star Major General.  Billy was also the owner of several different companies.  He was a wonderful father, grandfather, and brother, who loved his family with all his heart.  He will truly be missed by all who knew and loved him. 

He is survived by his loving daughter, Sherri Petit of Sherwood; his son, Craig Jester of Missouri; his grandchildren, Tiffany Knox, Alexia Jester, Makayla Jester, Zachary Jester, and Te’a Jester; his brother, Larry Jester of Booneville; his two sisters and brother-in-law, Betty and Billy Joe Beatty of Waveland and Alice Starling of Booneville; numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews; cousins and extended family members; and a host of wonderful friends.

Graveside services with full military honors provided by the United States Army Honors Team, will be held at 2:00 PM, Saturday, December 17, 2022, in the Mount Tabor Cemetery with Bro. Don Vaughn officiating.

Arrangements are under the direction of Smith Family Funeral Home-Glenwood, 209 North Third Street, Glenwood, AR 71943.

Guest registry is at www.smithfamilycares.com.