Lloyd Lawrence Jester passed quietly in his home from ongoing health issues on 9/30/24 at the age of 54.
Lloyd was born in the town of Helena, MT on July 1st, 1970, to Frank (Bill) and Carol Jester.
In his early years, Lloyd was seen as the golden child amongst his sisters. He was a very shy and quiet child, but a very gentle and kind soul. He filled a hole in his family that they themselves didn’t know they had. Lloyd was a mentor and guide to many of the Helena youth throughout his life. While coaching baseball and bowling in his later years, he brought joy to many of the Helena youth, always sharing his love of the sports. If not for the Braves, Raiders, and Carroll College shirts, he may not of had any clothes in is possession. Lloyd also had a profound love of animals, especially cats, and although he always said, “no more pets”, his soft heart always fell deeply for the kittens that were brought home. Although he was new to fatherhood, he had an innate affinity for lame dad jokes, often telling others that their shoes were untied, or that there were only 10 more minutes in the middle of a long road trip. Lloyd was so naturally friendly and kind that soon half of Helena knew who he was, and his family couldn’t take him anywhere without stopping every few feet for him to happily say hi to someone. His friendly disposition was carried on by his children and grandchildren, whom also seem to always run into friends no matter where they go.
Lloyd is survived by his loving spouse Connie Jester; his children Michael Jester, Willie Anderson, and Anna Anderson; siblings Carol Calkins (Bob), Walter Jester (Gail), Grayle Martin (Bruce), and Thomas Jester (Deanna), Mariann Henry (Tom); grandchildren Wyatt Potter, and Harlyn Anderson; Anna Jester, Ginger Jester, numerous nieces and nephews and cousins.
Lloyd is preceded in death by his father Frank William Jester (Bill); Mother Carol Louise Pulliam/Jester; Brother Robert Jester (Bobby); and Grandma Grace Anders.
A special thanks to the Helena Community for always loving and bringing a smile to is face whenever possible. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Helena USBC junior scholarship fund, donations can be sent to Sleeping Giant Lanes 3355 Tricia St. Helena, MT 59601 or dropped off at Sleeping Giant.
Michelle Anderson says
So sorry to all of Lloyd’s friends and Family. What a huge loss of our bowling family. He touched so many lives in bowling especially Jr bowling in our city and state. I can’t think of a better role model and how much of a difference he made with his guidance. God speed Lloyd, you will be missed here on earth but never forgotten.
Michelle and family
Lance Flansaas says
Lloyd I just saw you at my Wedding two weeks ago. We just started communicating out of nowhere these past few months. I cannot tell you how important you were in my younger life growing up. My Heart goes out to your family and I feel very blessed to have seen and share with you a special moment in my families life. Love you Coach.
Debbie Morrison says
To Lloyd’s family:
Words aren’t enough to express my profound sorrow to you on the loss of one of the most kindest, dedicated individuals I know for nearly 40 years. From coaching bowling with Lloyd, to working tournaments together, pranking each other and laughing at each other’s jokes, he made it so much fun! I will miss him so much but am grateful for all the memories. I pray that God will wrap his loving arms around you in comfort during this difficult time. Sending my love to everyone 💕
Tamara Humphries says
So Sorry to hear the passing of Lloyd. We met each other through bowling with the kids. My heart and prayers go out to your family.
Katie Eslick says
Lloyd I can’t believe that you’re gone. You played such a HUGE part of my upbringing at Capital City Bowl and are kbe of the reasons I love and enjoy bowling so much. I will miss seeing you and my thoughts and prayers go out to your family.
Vicki Kroll says
To the family of Lloyd. So very sorry to hear of your loss. Lloyd was a very important part of mine and my kids life when they were growing up. From coaching them in bowling, competing with them in bowling. and working side by side with me through all the years of bowling. He was truly a wonderful, kind person, set many good examples to all the kids he coached over the years. He will be dearly missed, but he will be watching over you every day. You have gained your wings now, Lloyd. Fly high my friend.
Lanae Vetsch says
Sad news to hear about Lloyd passing. He was such a great person and fun to bowl with espeically at Captial City Bowl. My deepest condolences to the family. Thoughts and prayers are with you. May you have happy memories to get you through this difficult time.
Pat McGuire says
Lloyd; you were surely one of the kindest men I’ve ever known. I miss so much you being a part of the Junior bowling association and encouraging so many youngsters to participate in the sport of bowling. We had a lot of fun on Saturdays, that is for sure. I still have a bowling pin (the one you missed!) in my garage when you threw a 299 one night at Capital City Bowl; just never found the time to get back to Montana to give it to you. Can’t remember when the last time I got to see you, but it certainly has been too long. Rest in peace my friend.
To Lloyd’s family and friends; my condolences go out to all the people that Lloyd’s life has touched. He will be sorely missed by all. Prayers to you all and hope we all can take comfort in knowing that he has meant so much to us and influenced every one of us in some positive way.
Laurie gigette McGrath says
It is so very sad to lose my kind, sensitive next door neighbor. So many conversations over the fence the last 12 years. He absolutely loved his house, his yard, his garden, the apple tree, and his Mom’s old car. His house was always “overly” decorated at Christmas because it brought such joy to the kids. He treasured his son and his grandsons and talked about them all the time. In the summer the backyard was turned into a backyard waterpark! Our neighborhood will never be the same without you Lloyd. I hope you have found the peace that you so very much deserve and are once again united with your family. God speed my friend.
Whitney Smith says
I am so sorry to hear about his passing. Lloyd was a big part of my life when I was younger at Capital City Bowl. He was a great mentor and a good friend many years later. RIP Lloyd.
Dori Peltier says
I’ve known Lloyd since we were in middle school. He was truly one of the most humble and kind men I have ever known. Words cannot express how saddened I am to hear this news. The world has lost a very good man. He will be so missed. His family is present in my thoughts and Lloyd will always be in my heart.
Carol Culham says
So very sorry for your loss Connie. Lloyd would tell me that if I ever took out the gate to the back entrance of my yard he would like it. He was quite proud of his construction. Unfortunately I never did but I always will remember that he built it and loved it. Godspeed Connie. Carol Culhan – Peosta Ave
Hannah Danzer says
He was such a kind soul. He will be truly missed ❤️❤️❤️ loving and healing thoughts to his family.
mark hodges says
A shock to hear this. Such an amazing person Lloyd was. Hard to find a more real, open, honest and loyal friend. Each and evfery time he came to Butte for bowling we would get together and talk about everythying as freinds do. Such a specail person to all who knew him, he will be sorely missed. I am so very sorry
JT Quillin says
So saddened to hear of this. Lloyd was always the kindest person and a great mentor both in baseball and bowling for me. My heart goes out to all his family. My condolences to you all. He will be sorely missed.
Haven Smith says
Lloyd was a uniquely beautiful soul. I am so grateful that he was part of my life and the bowling community. He taught me everything about the game and was very proud that I was using the same system to teach my son. However, I am definitely not doing it with as much patience as Lloyd. I don’t think I don’t think I ever had a conversation with him that we didn’t both laugh at least once. That will be something I’ll remember about you forever. Love you brother, thanks for being a great mentor for all of us.
Bill Houston says
What can a person say other than Lloyd was one of the best people God ever put on this earth
Guy Almquist says
I worked with Lloyd for approximately twenty-five years. He was a kind, humble and selfless man, who treated everyone with such respect. Lloyd became a friend, and I’ll miss our conversations about everything sports, especially baseball. The late-night messages about the Atlanta Braves will stop but my admiration for him will not. Blessings to the family.
Jessie Obrecht - West Mont says
We just had Lloyd volunteering with First Interstate Bank here at West Mont. He was incredibly kind and stayed late to help us clean up, even after our programming ran late. His impact was felt in this place even after just a short time. Thinking of you all as you grieve his loss. Thankful for the light that Lloyd brought to this world.
Florence H Shaw says
So saddened to hear of Lloyd’s passing. For many years I would always try to make my way to his window at First Interstate Bank so I could enjoy a conversation with him.
I knew he was having health issues yet did not know the severity.
RIP Lloyd. My heart goes out to his family.
Roy Moreno says
I am so sorry to hear of Lloyd passing I firt met him when he work the desk at Capital City Bowl and bowled on a couple league with him I would see him at at Mountain West Bank on Montana Ave when I went to cash my check Helena youth bowler have lost an amazing bowling coach RIP my friend
Wes Feist says
Prayers and best wishes to the Jester Family. Lloyd was one of the best. He was an amazingly patient and kind coach, always there to support us growing up, in and out of the bowling alley. He will be missed greatly.
Cindy (Wooten) Platts says
I first met Lloyd when I worked with his sister at Taco Spot on Euclid in the 1980’s. He would come in after school and on weekends to spend hours playing video games. I remember a sweet, fun kid who turned into an incredibly kind man. I just can’t believe that you are gone, Lloyd. To know Lloyd was to love him. His impact on the junior bowling program will never be forgotten. My deepest condolences to Lloyd’s family and friends.
.Sherry and Tom Hermreck says
Our hearts and sympathies are with Gayle and Carol/families during this difficult time. Lloyd will be missed so much by his
family and friends. A good man gone too soon. 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼
Jennifer Tolan says
My thoughts and prayers go out to Lloyd’s family! I loved working with him at the bank and will miss him dearly!!
Ginny Whitehouse says
So much love to you all from the Whitehouses in Kentucky and Tennessee.
Madeline Rhodes says
My heart goes out to your family. Lloyd was the most loving and gentle man that always offered support through Bill’s illness. May the joy and peace he offered to do many help you through this difficult time. All my love to you all,
Madeline (Samuelson) Rhodes.
Robert Pennington says
Lloyd and I grew up in the same neighborhood. What a great guy! He also has an awesome family. He will be truly missed. Rest in peace, my friend.
Joe Bugni says
Lloyd was a classmate of mine. I always enjoyed when our paths would cross. He will be greatly missed. Rest in peace
Randy Schmoldt says
I worked with Lloyd at Mountain West for 8 years. He was truly a great guy! So kind and always a joke – sometimes good but always funny. Rest in peace Lloyd. You will be missed.
Cheryl l says
I also worked with Lloyd for 24 years at Mountain West Bank which is now First Interstate Bank. At the beginning, he was in bookkeeping taking care of all the customers and many just stopped by to say hi since they were in the bank for other reasons. This was still happening regardless which branch he was at. Back then, when he wasn’t at work, you knew he was either bowling or teaching others how to bowl or play ball. We all knew he would make a great dad. Which he did and was very proud of. Rest in peace. You will be missed.
Julie Strong aka LITTLE FRED says
Lloyd,
34 years of friendship. So sad it had to end. Lloyd was my coach, best friend and mentor. He made the junior bowling program at Capital City Bowl the best place to grow up. I met the best group of people and had an amazing time. Bowling league and doing traveling league was so fun and it was because of Lloyd. Even outside of bowling Lloyd was the greatest friend and supporter he was there for all of our good times and worst times. He would do anything for anybody. I will miss you forever. Thank you for always checking on me. Especially these last 6 months. (Your shoe is untied)
Miss you Julie Strong aka LITTLE FRED
Jessica Freeman says
I am deeply saddened to hear of Lloyd’s passing. I had the pleasure of having Lloyd as my youth bowling coach at Capital City Bowl. He loved the sport of bowling and his passion for the game was contagious. I appreciate all the time and effort he put into helping me and all the other junior bowlers. He was one of a kind! He always had a smile on his face and was always putting smiles on other people’s faces. I fondly remember him telling me that my shoe was untied. I always tried really hard not to fall for it! Rest easy, Lloyd. The Jester family is in my thoughts and prayers.
Barbara J Southwell says
Lloyd YOU are and will continue to be missed. I am grateful that your life was lived FULL of open doors and a loving heart. The countless “family” events and moments you have shared with those I love have and will continue to impact our lives. Shared vacation, fishing, travels, and BOWLING; all the bowling. Thank you for being a friend, a cheerleader, a councilor, a father figure, and an anchor to this life and the lives of my own daughter and grandson. We are all changed and better because you shared our trail shoes “UN-tied”!
Patty and Don Dahl says
What a wonderful, wonderful man. The world is a better place for having had Lloyd in it. To all of Lloyd’s family…may you find comfort in knowing how much Lloyd meant to so many people.
Heathee Kroll Nelson says
Such an intricate part iof my life as a Jr bowler and friend, his patience and kindness will forever hold a place in my heart. So selfless and willing to give all that he could. He made the world a better place, and definitely made me a better person. My thoughts and prayers go out to all that have been impacted by this incredible man, he will be missed. Until we meet in the hallways of heaven old friend.
Jean and Anthony Strainer says
The greater Helena area has lost an avid youth supporter, friend, and genuinely kind man. Many kind words about Lloyd have already been written, especially those that express his positive impact on many lives. We came to know him back when he was a teenage kid coaching Babe Ruth baseball. We send our condolences to Lloyd’s family. May the memories of your lives together make you smile. May God give you strength and peace.
Connie Robinson says
Connie and family, I’m so sorry to hear of the loss of Lloyd. He was such a kind, funny and loving man towards everyone. He will be missed. I pray that your memories of Lloyd will give you comfort in this horrible time of loss. Sending love and prayers.
Lynda Reisbeck says
I was shocked and heart broken to hear of Lloyd passing away! I have been his Insurance Agent for the past 35 years and just met with him a couple of days prior to his passing. What a joy he was!! Always a gentleman, and an incredible man. So many stories over the years of joy and love. Oh, how he loved his Family!! It’s hard to understand sometimes why he was taken from us so soon…. but find comfort in knowing you were a special part of such a well- lived life. When the Lord calls our loved ones home, he leaves a gift of memories in exchange. May happy memories carry you through this sorrowful time. Love you my friend!!! I am going to miss our many, many conversations! ( and yes…. my shoes are tied! )
Molly Bailey says
I am in total disbelief, my thoughts and prayers are with you Connie & Michael and family…I am deeply saddened to hear of Lloyds passing.He is by far the most genuine gentleman I have ever met.The Jesters have always been so kind and caring,,no matter how long it had been always greeted with a smile and warm huge … Helena won’t be the same without him…I am greatful to have known you and called you friend..
Connie and Tim Ferriter says
We are very sorry to hear of Lloyd’s passing. Our prayers and thoughts are with his family. He was a very kind person and will be very missed. God Bless and prayers to him and his family.
Isaac Ruggles says
To Lloyd’s family and friends. The news of Coach Jester passing hit me hard along with so many in the community. He was loved by so many. He was my youth coach from the time I was 10 well into my teens and then later we bowled in Mens league together. Saturday mornings at Capital City Bowl were always great when Lloyd was there. All of us kids were always excited to tell Lloyd about our week or how we did in practice. When the NFL football season would start up we would always give each other a hard time about our respective teams. Thanks for being there for us bowlers for all those years Lloyd. You will not be forgotten!
Victoria Anderson says
So sorry , my condolences for your loss .
Wanda Allen Marcano says
We have a heavy heart in Kansas. Our thoughts are with all our families with much love.
Jenny Freeman says
Lloyd was huge part of my life growing up as he was to so many others he pushed all of us to be the best we could be not just on the lanes but in lifel in general he inspired us everyday even if we didn’t bowl that day he wasn’t just our coach or friend he was our family one of the kindest people I have ever met it rips my heart out that I will not be told by him that my shoes are untied or to fallow threw again rest in paradise my friend hopefully watching the Raiders
Skitten says
My heart goes out to Lloyd’s family , I’ve only known him just a little over a year, and not to long ago helped him with the battery to his truck, he was very thankful for the help and always laughed at his jokes. You were always a breath of fresh air to see and speak to.
You are greatly missed and will always have a spot in my memories. Fly high my friend till we meet again.
Alton Baxley says
Lloyd, you will be missed. It was a pleasure knowing you and enjoyed the time we rode ATV’s, shooting, eating and just having talks. It was amazing how we meet when I served with your consent so many years earlier. Lloyd was a good man as we need more men like him in this world which would make all our lives better. We will meet again.
Michele Faure says
I worked with Lloyd at MWB, and then always saw him at FIB. He was such an amazing person. Connie, I am so sorry for your loss, my thoughts are with you and your family at this time.
Helen Baxley says
Lloyd, you will be missed. It was a pleasure knowing you and enjoyed the time we rode ATV’s, shooting, eating and just having talks. It was amazing how we meet when I served with your consent so many years earlier. Lloyd was a good man as we need more men like him in this world which would make all our lives better. We will meet again. Helen is sorry you passed and misses your jokes and hummer and your crazy hunger for corn and rodeos.
Chazzell Skillman says
I have worked side by side with Lloyd for the last 3 years. Even though it is a short time compared to the long relationships he had with so many, his passing has still left a huge hole in our hearts! Work will never be the same without you there. No more silly dad jokes or quick comebacks when it came to talking smack, but we know you will always be there in spirit. Lloyd touched the hearts of SO many people and he will never be forgotten and always missed! My thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time!!!
Deborah Beaudry says
You were a fun man. Bowled in a few tournaments with Lloyd. He also babysat my cat years ago. You will truly be missed.
Marcia Wall says
I’m truly sorry to all of you that knew Lloyd. He was the guy I went to for all my banking needs and helping with Angel Fund deposits. I would always look for him when going through the drive through. He was consistently friendly and kind no matter what day or time it was. I’m overwhelmed with sadness that we all lost such a special friend. God Bless you Lloyd and thank you for all you represented to each of us. You made the world better and kinder. ❤️
Dean Retz says
I have known Lloyd for a long time. And – when I was in the real estate business – it was so wonderful to have Connie be the closing agent at the title company, and then have Willie deliver the commission check to me. AND THEN – go the bank and make sure that I had Lloyd as my teller!! GOD BLESS.
Erin Cobban says
My heart goes out to Lloyd’s family during this difficult time. The pain losing someone as special as Lloyd was is extremely hard. I first met Lloyd at Capital City. He was one of my grandfather’s ( David Wheat ) junior bowlers. He was so kind and his love for bowling was evident. May he rest in peace and go on to teach some amazing bowlers in heaven. 🙏❤️🙏❤️
Dean L Whitbeck says
So sorry to hear of Lloyd’s passing. My boys Chris and Mike Hess were in Jr bowling. Lloyd was their coach.What a great kid he was so kind and friendly. He was taken way to early.
PATTIE SMITH says
Lloyd would in to Albertson almost daily,his warm smile would always light up my day i’m a checker,so i talk to alot of people i considered Lloyd my friend we would talk sometimes the subjects we would talk about bought a tears to both our eyes,we would give each other a hug and off he would go with a smile on his face..i ‘am in total shock of his passing i will miss him I truly am going to miss my friend may u rest in peace Lloyd Always who will never forget our short talks together love always your friendly checker..Patti