In loving memory of

Danny Joseph Hester
February 7, 1954 - December 4, 2020

On December 4, 2020, Retired Navy BMC Danny Joseph Hester passed away. Danny was born on February 7, 1954 to Elmer and Esther Hester of Owensboro, Kentucky and after graduating Owensboro High School in 1972, Danny enlisted in the U.S. Navy. During his 22 years of service to his country, in such arenas as the Vietnam and Gulf wars, Danny received numerous honors including the Kuwait Liberation medal, the Navy Expeditionary Medal, and was awarded the coveted Sailor of the Year Award. Upon his retirement from the Navy in 1994, Danny settled in Nokomis, Florida where he spent the last of his days.

Danny leaves behind his wife and partner of 19 years, Mary Ellen Hester, four children (Jennifer Harmon, Michael Hester, Derek Hester and Miranda Hester). He also leaves his beloved sister Patsy Sears, brother-in-law Tim Sears, six grandchildren (Hannah, Faith, Allisa, Ashley, Mercedes and Camryn) and four great children (Kayla, Jake, Tony and Nevea).

A private memorial service and internment will be held on February 5, 2021 at the Sarasota National Cemetery and due to Covid-19 restrictions, attendees will be by invitation only.

Tributes

Allisa Shook (Hester) wrote on Dec 22, 2020:

"I miss my grandpa very much. But I know now he is in happier place n he can see all of us now n even see the new baby nevaeh n im sure she see him BC she laughs n points to random places lol.. Jake misses n loves him too n so glad my baby have some memories like I do with grandpa."

PATSY SEARS wrote on Dec 18, 2020:

"I LOVE AND MISS YOU SO MUCH LITTLE BROTHER IT WAS NOT SUPPOSE TO HAPPEN THIS WAY I AM SO SAD REST IN PEACE"

Jennifer Harmon wrote on Dec 17, 2020:

"I am Danny's oldest daughter, Jennifer Harmon. I remember when I was young, even though my parents were divorced, he had always made my brother, Micheal and I a priority. He always made sure we had everything we needed. Wherever he was stationed, we were always sent to go visit. I remember after I had my daughter Allisa, he sent us a plane ticket to Virginia so he could meet Allisa. He thought she was the "cutest thing ever". He wasen't too happy about being a grandfather, because he still thought he was "young and hot". Lol. Since then, there was his other grandchildren, Ashley, Faith, and Hannah. And then his great grandchildren, Kayla, Jake, Tony, and Nevaeh. He really felt old then! Jake is his only grandson he had ever met.We went out to visit him from Arkansas two years ago. Jake loved taking care of his great grandpa. And my dad loved watching him catch lizards. While we were out visiting, he made sure all the kids had bikes and lots of stuff to do, even though, he couldn't do most of the things with them. He just loved watching his grandchildren have fun. When Faith was born, he came out to Arkansas to visit, and 2 months later sent us out to visit him. He used to tell Faith, "His swimming pool, was hers".He would often call her and tell her, "You need to come clean your pool!". When Hannah was born, he sent us out there, as well. He had a play - pin, a baby walker, and everything ready for her. His dog named, DOG (Pronounced, D - O - G), was so protective over the girls. My dad loved watch them swim in the pool. I have so many good memories of my dad. I am thankful for all the times we were able to to go out and visit. My dad suffered for the last part of his years, but is no longer suffering. I will never forget all the stories about his childhood and his family. And even though they went through hard times, they persevered. My Aunt Patsy was his big sister and had always protected and took care of him. I only hope and pray my kids have the same relationship as they did. I am thankful for my two brothers, my sister, Maryellen, my aunt Patsy, my cousins and every one else who brought joy to my dad. I only wish I could have seen my dad one last time. By they way, Jason wanted me to add that he was "My dad's favorite son- in law" Jason was his only son- in - law! Lol! My dad and Jason laughed about that all the time. We all love and miss you, Dad/Grandpa. "

Miranda Hester wrote on Dec 17, 2020:

"Very loving and caring father. Jokes and stories for days. He would give the shirt off his back if it meant making someone else happy. He always put his kids and grand kids first. He loved unconditionally and is loved unconditionally. Love you dad. "