A Life Well Lived, A Love Well Shared, A Legacy Forever Remembered

Lester D. Walton Sr. was born on November 16, 1954, in Manhattan, New York, to Lula Holmes and Lawrence Walton. From his early beginnings in New York City through the many chapters of his life, Lester built a legacy rooted in family, service, love, and the simple joys that made life meaningful.

Lester attended Alexander High School before answering the call to serve his country by joining the United States Army, where he served as a Cannon Crew Member (13B). Following his military service, Lester continued his professional journey in several civilian positions, including school safety, check processing for Chase Bank, and security services for Bank of America and the Board of Education. He concluded his professional career as a security officer at the 911 Emergency Services Building, where he retired.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Lester embraced life in his own unique way. He was an avid competitive chess player, and during the summer months, it was not unusual to find him playing from sunup to sundown. Chess was more than a pastime; it was a passion that brought him enjoyment and reflected his competitive spirit.

Family was at the heart of Lester’s life. Although he may not have enjoyed being in front of the camera, he loved capturing memories behind it. He understood the importance of preserving special moments, even if he preferred to remain out of the picture himself. The photographs he took and the memories created together will remain treasured reminders of the love he shared with those closest to him.

A Love Story Meant to Be

Lester’s love story with his beloved wife, Joanne, began in junior high school. Their paths often crossed on Dean Street, particularly at his Nana’s house. Lester would fondly recall what first caught his attention about Joanne, often saying there was just something about “those legs that caught his eye.”

Although life led them on separate journeys for a time, love found its way back to them in 1983. Their reunion marked the beginning of a special kind of love, one that endured through the years and became the foundation of their life together. Their story is a beautiful reminder that sometimes love never truly leaves; it simply finds its way home.

Those He Leaves to Cherish His Memory

Lester was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Lula Holmes and Lawrence Walton; his grandparents, Beulah and James Holmes; and his brother, Lawrence Walton Jr.

He leaves behind a loving family who will forever hold him close in their hearts, including his devoted wife, Joanne; his daughters, LaShon, Monique, and Tamikka; his sons, Demetrius and Lester Jr.; his son-in-law, Richard Williams; and his stepmother, Joan.

His legacy continues through his cherished grandchildren, Alaina, Donavon Jr., LaRon, Lamont, Shaun-Paul, LaRyn, DeQuavian, NaKiya, and Elijah; his granddaughter-in-law, Kayla Duncanson, the beloved wife of Donavon Jr.; and his nine beloved great-grandchildren, Tahlon, Aria, Cobe, Dalilah, Donavon III, Monai, Denim, Onyx, and Onye.

He also leaves to cherish his memory his special friend, Jackie; his sister-in-law, Hazel, and her husband, Donnie Sr.; his nieces, Lauren, Jasmin, and Anisha; and his nephew, Donnie Jr. In addition, he leaves a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends whose lives were touched by his presence.

Forever in Our Hearts

Lester’s life was a journey filled with service, cherished memories, enduring love, and the unbreakable bonds of family. He leaves behind more than a lifetime of memories; he leaves a legacy that will continue through the generations who carry his name, his stories, and his love forward.

Though his presence will be deeply missed, the moments shared with him will never be forgotten. His laughter, his passion for chess, his devotion to family, and his one-of-a-kind love story with Joanne will remain forever etched in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

As the sun set on October 16, 2026, at 5:23 p.m., we said goodbye to a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, cousin, and friend. Yet, the love Lester gave and the memories he created will continue to shine long after his final sunset.

Rest peacefully, Lester D. Walton Sr.

Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure, and your love a legacy that will live on forever.