Michael Keith Lester

Michael Keith Lester, 75, of Harmony, NC, peacefully went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, at Gordon Hospice House.

Born on May 8, 1950, in Mingo County, West Virginia, Michael was the son of the late Ed McBrayer, Step-Father, and Ruth Godfrey McBrayer. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife Reda Faye Bailey Lester in July of this year. We find comfort in knowing that they are joyfully reunited in heaven together again. He was also preceded in death by three brothers, Freddie Lester, Gerald Lester, Archie Lester; brother-in-laws, Bob Allen, James Lively, and Charles "Chuck" Boldin; and sister-in-laws, Addie Lester and Myrtle Lester. 

He was a man of deep faith, unwavering love for his family, and a servant’s heart. Michael dedicated his career as an electrician for the Mingo County School Board, but his true calling was ministry. A devoted Christian and Pastor, he spent much of his life sharing the Gospel, guiding others in faith, and finding creative ways—like crafting handmade jewelry—to connect with and uplift those around him. His generous spirit and kind heart left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

He found joy in the simple things in life. He loved working in his garden, going fishing or hunting, or just spending time outdoors. More recently, he enjoyed feeding the squirrels at the park. But above all, Michael was a family man and cherished spending time with his family.

Those left to cherish his memory include three sons, Kevin Bailey (Stephanie Roark), Greg (Dana) Bailey, and Scott (Shawntae) Lester; brother, Jackie (Tonya) McBrayer, Roger (Dorothy) Lester; sisters, Jean Allen, Jewell Lively, and Lynda Boldin; grandchildren, Michelle Bailey, Jeremy Leonard, Hailey Brooks, Payton (Megan) Bailey, Jayden Bailey, Bryson Lester, and Alyssa Lester, and five great-grandchildren.

The family will receive friends from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 6, 2025 at Nicholson Funeral Home. The funeral service will follow in the chapel at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Tommy Cuthbertson officiating. Burial will immediately follow the service at Iredell Memorial Gardens.

The family would like to give a special thanks to Stephanie Roark for her loving care shown to Michael.

Nicholson Funeral Home is entrusted with the arrangements for Michael Lester.