Frances Helen Hester

Frances Helen Hester, age 96, of Oak Ridge, passed away Wednesday, Aug. 1, at NHC Health Care Center.

She was born Feb. 10, 1916, in Johnson City, one of nine children born to Charles and Martha Hardt Bennett.

Mrs. Hester was the last living charter member of West Village Christian Church. She loved her home and her family and was always very content with her life.

In addition to her parents and siblings, she was preceded in death by her husband of 71 years, Charles Ned Hester, on Jan. 28, 2004.

She is survived by daughters, Peggy Jansen of Knoxville, Nancy McKinney and husband Gilbert of Oak Ridge, Judith Phillips and husband Franklin of Oak Ridge, and Sharon Trahan and Don Smith of Knoxville; son, Charles Ned Hester Jr. and wife Judy of Dothan, Ala.; 19 grandchildren; and numerous great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.

The family will receive friends Saturday, Aug. 4, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Weatherford Mortuary. The funeral will follow at 8 p.m. with Rev. Bruce Martin officiating.

A graveside service will be held on Sunday at 3:30 p.m. at Oak Ridge Memorial Park.

The family asks that any memorials be in the form of contributions to West Village Christian Church, 637 Robertsville Road, Oak Ridge, TN 37830.

An online guest book can be signed at www.weatherfordmortuary.com.