Jean F. Lester

Jean F. Lester, who worked for more than 30 years for the East Hampton School District, died on Dec. 6 at home in Springs. She was 71 and had pancreatic cancer, which was diagnosed about five months ago. 

Mrs. Lester was born on Nov. 23, 1945, in Southampton, one of the three children of Earl Finch and the former Grace DiSunno of East Hampton. She graduated from East Hampton High School and at first worked as a bookkeeper at what was then the First National Bank in East Hampton. She then found work at East Hampton High School, helping with guidance and special education. She was married to Ronnie Lester, who survives.

Kathy Barnes described her sister as someone who was extremely helpful to others whenever they needed it. After retiring, she devoted herself to caring for her yard, flowers, and house.

In addition to her husband and Mrs. Barnes, she is survived by a half brother, Keith LeDuc of Charlotte, N.C., a daughter, Tara Harden of Maidens, Va., and three grandsons. Linda Shields of Amagansett, another sister, died about 25 years ago.

The Rev. Steven Howarth of the Amagansett Presbyterian Church officiated at a graveyard service at Green River Cemetery in Springs, where Mrs. Lester was buried.

Donations in her name have been suggested, to the Lustgarten Foundation, which sponsors research toward a cure for pancreatic cancer, 1111 Stewart Avenue, Bethpage, N.Y. 11714.