Lester Eugene Cumston

Lester Eugene Cumston, a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on the 6th day of April 2023, in Tyler, Texas, at the age of 85. Born in Marion, Ohio, on the 26th day of February 1938, to parents Lester Leroy Cumston and Bertha Meeker Cumston, Lester was known for his gentle nature, selflessness, and generosity throughout his life.

Lester is survived by his wife of 59 years, Joy Cumston, and their son, Gary Cumston and wife Sharon of Palestine, Texas. He is also survived by his brothers, Bill Cumston and George Cumston, both of Michigan; his grandchildren, Thomas Cumston and wife Amber, Courtney Bobbitt and husband Eric, and Taylor Cumston; and his great-grandchildren, Ayden Cumston, Jackson Cumston, and Elizabeth Cumston.  He is preceded in death by his parents, Lester and Bertha Cumston and his sisters, Mary Kerns and Betty Pixley.  Lester's devotion to his family was evident in the way he cared for his loved ones, always putting their needs before his own.

Lester was a United States Army Veteran and dedicated many years of his life to serving the community of Palestine, where he worked as a supervisor for the water department. His hard work and commitment to his job were greatly appreciated by his colleagues and the citizens of Palestine. Lester also contributed his time to serving at his church, Memory Lane Missionary Baptist Church.  Lester's tireless work ethic and dedication to his profession and faith made a lasting impact on the community.

In his free time, Lester enjoyed being outside, fishing, and working around the house. He had a deep love for nature and took great pleasure in maintaining his home and garden. Lester's ability to find joy in life's simple moments and his appreciation for the beauty of the outdoors served as an inspiration to those who knew him.

Lester's gentle demeanor, selflessness, and generosity endeared him to all who had the pleasure of knowing him. His unwavering commitment to his family and community will be remembered and cherished by those he leaves behind.

As we remember Lester Eugene Cumston, let us celebrate the life of a man who touched so many lives with his kindness and gentle spirit. May his memory be a source of comfort and inspiration to all who knew him.

Friends are cordially invited to a visitation where his loved ones will gather to share memories of his life and honor the legacy he leaves behind, from five o’clock until seven o’clock in the evening on Friday, the 7th day of April 2023 at Rhone Funeral Home.

Funeral services to honor Lester Cumston’s life are to be conducted at ten o’clock in the morning on Saturday, the 8th day of April 2023 in the Rhone Memorial Chapel with Bro. Wesley Veazey and Bro. Wayne Stewart, Jr. officiating the service.  Interment will follow in Palestine City Cemetery.

Honored to serve as pallbearers during the service are Thomas Cumston, Eric Bobbit, Daedrian Lipscomb, Brynn Parker, Sam Blackmon, and Billy Joe Cumston.  Honorary pallbearers include Brad Parker, Stewart Grounds, and Barry Grounds.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Lester's memory to Memory Lane Missionary Baptist Church in Palestine, reflecting his generous spirit and desire to help others.

Funeral services for Lester Eugene Cumston are in care of Rhone Funeral Home, 3900 S. State Highway 19, Palestine, Texas.

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