Betty Jean Kester

Mrs. Betty Jean Kester, age 89, a compassionate and loving mother, grandmother, and friend, was born in Indianapolis, IN to Ernest O. and Theresa (Dickerson) Starkey and grew up on a farm with her seven siblings. She graduated from Pike High School in 1945, which is where she met her husband Roy Raymond Kester. After he served in the US Navy they married in 1947. Ray preceded her in death in 1991. Betty is survived by her loving family daughter, Barbara (Kevin) Younkin (Haines City, FL), son David Kester (Speedway, IN), and daughter-in-law Minnie Kester (Lakeland, FL). Her son, Steve Kester, died tragically in 1998. Grandma Betty was dearly loved by her grandchildren Kyle (Kerry) Younkin (Medina, OH), Brittany Kester (Summerville, SC), Ryan Kester, (Lakeland, FL), and Elizabeth and Eric Kester (Lansing, MI). Betty retired from Paul Harris Clothing Store in 1989 and she and Ray moved to Florida. They were both active in their church and their residence park, Ariana Shores, in Auburndale. Her many friends there loved her for her friendly smile, her sense of humor, and her kind spirit. Betty's love of baseball began with her sons' involvement in little league in Indianapolis. Since their inception, she's been a big fan of the Tampa Rays, attending several games and watching them most evenings. At church you usually found Betty working at the nursery. She especially loved babies and toddlers and they loved her back. She helped with Sunday School and Vacation Bible School. She attended North Liberty and New Hope Christian churches in Indiana, Winter Haven Christian Church, and Lena Vista United Methodist Church in Florida.Family was always a top priority for Betty. She has traveled with all of them to various places in the world and has loved and supported them always. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Cancer Society and/or Rays Baseball Foundation.