Mr. Willis Irving Lester, Jr.

Willis Irving “Butch” Lester, Jr., passed away on February 4, 2026, just days before his 79th birthday. Born on February 8, 1947, in Concord, Massachusetts, to Willis Irving Lester, Sr. and Rachel Scott Tucker, he was known to all simply as Butch, a name that reflected his warm, approachable, and larger-than-life personality. Butch was preceded in death by two of his siblings, (Big sister) Judi Walsh and (Baby sister) Robin Chesnick, and is survived by his siblings Ann Marie Lester and Jon Lester. In his younger years, Butch was something of a local rockstar—the lead singer and drummer of a band called The Sounds Unknown. A natural performer with charisma and charm, he loved being on stage, entertaining crowds, and sharing his passion for music. It was through this vibrant spirit that he caught the eye of Lorraine Guilbert, and this is where the love story began, a partnership that would shape the rest of his life. On August 18, 1967, Butch married Lorraine, the love of his life, a devoted wife and constant companion. Together, they built a beautiful life grounded in love, laughter, faith, and family—one that spanned nearly six decades. In 1981, Butch and his family moved to South Carolina, where they planted new roots and quickly made it their home. It was there that Butch continued to build a life centered on family, faith, and community, leaving a lasting impact on all who knew him. Butch was a proud and devoted father to three daughters: Jennifer Thompson (Christopher), Cheri Spivey (Bart) and Julie Liptak (Robert). Family was the most important thing in his life, and he loved fiercely and wholeheartedly. His greatest joy came from his role as Papa to his eight grandchildren—Dustin, Alex, Blake, Brandon, Rachel, Emily, Harrison, and Christopher—and his four great-grandchildren, Aubree, Zander, Zayden, and Walker. As Papa, he was deeply involved in their lives, endlessly supportive of all their sports and activities, and a constant source of encouragement, laughter, and love. “Uncle Butch” was equally adored by his many, many nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews. Lest we not forget his faithful fur baby Toby. A hardworking and principled man, Butch spent the majority of his career in the automotive business before later working as an insurance adjuster prior to his retirement. He was known for his strong morals, integrity, and work ethic—values he lived by and proudly passed on to his family. Butch was strong in his faith, and he lived that faith through service to others. He became an important and trusted presence in many lives through his work with Christian youth, offering guidance, encouragement, and compassion. He also founded a group called 12-Steppin’ with Jesus, where he counseled and walked alongside those struggling with addiction. Through patience, honesty, and unwavering belief, he helped others find hope, healing, and a path forward, always pointing them toward faith, grace, and redemption. Gregarious and full of life, Butch was always the life of the party and was truly loved by everyone who knew him. He had a natural gift for making people feel welcome and valued. He loved to perform, delighting family and friends with his singing and dancing, and he never hesitated to bring laughter and joy into any gathering. An avid golfer throughout his life, Butch was a proud member of Columbia Country Club, where he formed strong and lasting friendships that he deeply cherished. A loyal New England Patriots fan, he also loved family game nights and traveling on cruises, where his fun-loving spirit shined. These moments—filled with laughter, stories, and togetherness—are among the many treasured memories he leaves behind. Butch will be remembered most for his deep faith lived through action, boundless love for his family, joyful spirit, strong morals, and the countless lives he touched through compassion, mentorship, and hope. His legacy lives on through the generations he adored and the many people he helped find light in their darkest moments. ________________________________________ May he rest in eternal peace, embraced by God’s promise of everlasting life. May his memory be a blessing, and may those who loved him find comfort in knowing that he is home, rejoicing in faith and love everlasting. ________________________________________ In lieu of flowers the family would like a donation to one of these foundations that are very important to the family. Live Like London Foundation: https://givebutter.com/NyTzP9 Bill McDaniels Foundation: https://link.edgepilot.com/s/c7f2e4cc/e10j-c5BxEyF5--1PPvkjQ?u=https://www.billmcdanielsfoundation.org/ Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, is assisting the family and will announce service plans.

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Mr. Willis Irving Lester, Jr.

February 8, 1947 - February 4, 2026