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Celebrating the life of
Irene Matthews Lester
September 23, 1935 - October 15, 2024
Irene Matthews Lester, age 89, passed away peacefully on October 15, 2024, at Azalealand Nursing Home surrounded by her loving family. Born on September 23, 1935, in Chicago, IL. Irene grew up with a love for learning, which carried through her life. She graduated from college at age 20 and began her career in education teaching in the Chicago public school system. Later in life, she returned to college for her master’s degrees in special education and counseling.
A devoted Mother and educator, she was known for her warmth, kindness, patience, and dedication to young people. The number of young people she impacted during her life dates back to the 1950’s and continues today. She was a decades long member of the Wilmington Island Presbyterian Church where she sang in the choir, taught Vacation Bible School, and served in many leadership positions.
Irene is survived by her son, Lamar Lester, Jr. (Dwan) of Pooler and daughter Laura "Sissy" Simpson (Ed) of Savannah. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Lamar Lester, III (Marilyn) of Marietta; Hunter Lester of Tybee Island, and Irene “Mattie” Simpson of Santa Rosa Beach, FL.; her brothers Chuck Matthews (Tina), Bill Matthews (Jan), Tom Matthews, nieces, nephews, and cousins who will cherish her memory and continue to celebrate her legacy. She is predeceased by her children’s father Lamar Lester, Sr. and her son William Lester.
There will be a visitation on Friday, October 18th from 5pm – 7pm at Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Islands Chapel. A celebration of Irene’s life will be held on Saturday, October 19th at Wilmington Island Presbyterian Church at 11am. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in her memory to Azalealand Nursing Home, c/o Bess Pope, 2040 Colonial Drive, Savannah, GA 31406. She spent the final months of her life there and was cared for with love and compassion.
Ms. Lester will forever be remembered as a loving person. The love she showed Bill was almost tangible. She will missed.
- Stacy (Dr. Benson), Savannah, Ga
Wonderful lady. Worked with her at Savannah Christian middle school. condolences to the family.
- Stephen and Stella Hefner, Savannah, Georgia Fireplace
Mrs. Lester was one of a kind. My daughter, Morgan, was a student at Savannah Christian Middle School and was blessed to have her as her Counselor. The kindness, compassion and gentle touch that she had with the students was and is unmatched. We shared a table at a wedding reception where Morgan was singing. The following week she sent me the most beautiful hand written note telling me how much she enjoyed the evening and how special Morgan is. Keith and I have the comfort of knowing that Morgan has another Angel watching over her.
- Keith and Renee’ Grotheer, Jacksonville , FL
Our children were fortunate to know Mrs Lester at Savannah Christian Middle School. Her compassion and love for children was huge and I can still recall many acts of kindness.
- Susan and Steve Gore, Savannah, GA
We are deeply saddened to hear of Irene’s passing. She was a dear friend & neighbor & a truly wonderful lady! We have so many great memories of our times with her. We send our deepest sympathy & condolences to the whole family!
- Ron & Darlene Barta, Hot Springs Village, Arkansas
MS.Irene will truly be missed,My family sends condolences to each of you,May God Bless Each one of you ) Phyllis
- Phyllis, Savannah , GA
Deepest sympathy to Lamar and Sissy and their families at the loss of their lovely mother, who is greatly missed by her friends at Thrive.
- Esther Smith, Savannah, Ga
Good memores of our Chi Omega days together...blessings!!♡♡♡
- Babs Hettinger Lester, Chandler , AZ
What sad news. Irene was a lovely lady and a dear friend of many years. I have happy memories of singing with her in the WIPC choir.
- Betty Peltier, savannah, Ga
The Angels surely welcomed you sweet ma - led no doubt by Billy! Our sincere sympathy and condolance for the Lester family. Ms Irene left an indelible legacy that will never be forgotton. Much Love, Kev and Sal
- Kevin and Sally Werntz, Savannah, GA
Services under the direction of:
Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200
- Visitation
- 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on Fri, October 18, 2024
- Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Islands Chapel
-
4605 Hwy 80 East (map)
Savannah GA 31410 - 912-898-0900
- Funeral Service
- 11:00 a.m. on Sat, October 19, 2024
- Wilmington Island Presbyterian Church
-
450 N. Cromwell Rd (map)
Savannah GA 31410 - 912-352-7200
