"Buddy" William Riley Hester

Buddy (William Riley) Hester, age 78, passed away peacefully on March 17, 2025. He was born on June 13, 1946, in Brooklyn, Alabama, to William Clyde and Ora Mae Pate Hester.

At the age of 17, Buddy answered the call to serve his country, joining the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. He served proudly with the Delta Company, 2nd Battalion, 1st Cavalry Division, from 1965 to 1966. His bravery and dedication to his country remained a point of pride throughout his life.

Following his service, Buddy worked tirelessly in the log woods and sawmill industries, dedicating most of his life to ensuring his family’s well-being. His strong work ethic, commitment, and love for his family defined his character and left an indelible mark on all who knew him.

Buddy is survived by his loving wife, Dorothy Hester; son, William (Chelsea) Hester; grandsons, Sterling and Steele Hester; brothers, David (Paula) Hester, Willis (Mary Jo) Hester; sisters, Bobbie Cherry, Gloria (Buddy) Shiver, Karen (Tommy Jones) Hester; sister-in-law, Wanda Smith; brother-in-law Mike Vines; and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family who will miss him dearly.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m., Wednesday, March 19, 2025, at Keahey Funeral Home Chapel. The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m., Tuesday evening at Keahey Funeral Home. Brother Jeff Grimes will officiate. The interment will follow in New Providence Cemetery in the Brooklyn Community. Military honors will be given by the U.S. Army team.

Pallbearers will include William Hester, Stephen Lynn Langley, Scott Langley, Keith Langley, Casey Shiver, Danny Wright, Frank Junior Boutwell, Clay Smith, and Wade Vines.

Buddy’s family would like to give a special thanks to Junior & Wendy Boutwell and Myra Babin for the support and care they gave Buddy during his final months. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.