Tommy Van Lester

Tommy Van Lester passed away on Friday, May 24, 2019 at his home. Tommy was born on March 31, 1941 in Rogers, Ark. to Vol and Dixie Lester. Tommy graduated from Springdale High School in 1959. He received his BSE from the College of the Ozarks in Clarksville and his M.Ed from the University of Arkansas in 1964. He lettered in football at SHS and College of the Ozarks. Tommy's career began as the Executive Director for Monahans, Texas Boys Club in 1964 and 1965. He was the Assistant Basketball Coach and Head Football Coach in Barton, AR from 1965-69. He was the Assistant Football Coach in Waldron, AR from 1969-70. Tommy served as Head Football Coach and Social Studies Teacher at Southwest Junior High in Springdale, AR from 1970-1978 and from 1989-99 he was the Offensive Line Coach and Social Studies Teacher at Springdale High School. Tommy retired in 1999 after 19 years with the Springdale Public School System and enjoyed time with his family and playing golf as much as possible at the Springdale Country Club. Tommy is survived by his wife Lois Lester of Springdale, his daughter Lisa McClelland of Fayetteville, his granddaughter and grandson-in-law Nicole and Peyton Falk of Rogers, his granddaughter Ashley McClelland of Fayetteville, sister Susan Alderson of Springdale, brother and sister-in-law Chuck and Cindy Lester of Hot Springs and nephews, Chuck Alderson, Blake Lester and Jonathan Lester and their families. Tommy specifically requested pallbearers Don Struebing, Jr., Joe Dean Davenport, Tim Baker, Roy Johnson and Greg Refroe and asked that the pallbearers NOT wear suits and ties because he didn't want anyone to look better than him. A special thank you to Good Shepherd In Home Senior Care, Circle of Life Hospice and RN Kathy Graham for being an advisor, teacher and friend to Tommy, Lois and Lisa. Tommy requested that in lieu of flowers that donations be made to the charity of your choice. Visitation will be Monday 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Westfield Chapel. Services will be held at Westfield Chapel 2:00 p.m. Tuesday Online condolences www.WestfieldChapel.com.