John Lester Channell

John "Lester" Channell, of the Mt. Olive Community in Coker, AL passed away on May 8, 2026. Meeting him at Heaven's gates was his wife of 64 years, Eva Jewell, sons, Barry and Danny Channell, grandson, Keith Channell and sister, Linda Tingle.

He is survived by a daughter, Brenda Ragsdale (David) and son, Ronny (Cindy); Daughters-in-law, Lisa and Pam; Grandchildren: Pam Robertson (Greg), Jeanette Brand (Scotty), Eric Channell (Vanessa), Kevin Channell, Jacob Channell (Taren) and Ron Channell. Great grandchildren: Matthew Robertson (Kathryn), Michael Robertson (Shelby), Sarah Robertson, Nathan Brand, Addison Channell, Sawyer Channell and Anna Channell. Great-great grandchildren: Emma, Owen, Greyson, Cooper and Beaux. Sisters, Barbara Smith and Sharon Vice.

Lester was the epitome of a good father. He was a man of faith and led by example by taking his family to church and faithfully attending. He helped build several churches. He was a hard worker and faithful provider for his family. He made a career in management at A&P and Consumer Foods grocery stores and finally retired from Walmart. He was a storyteller and loved to tell how he met his wife in Berry, AL and how they got married in the back seat of a '51 Chevy.

He enjoyed camping in his younger years and cruising in his latter years. He was the self-appointed neighborhood watchman of The Village and could be frequently found around a table with a game of dominoes. Emotion and affection were hard for him, but he loved his family. He was 'Daddy' to his kids, 'Grandpa' to his grand kids, then became 'PePaw' and 'Popple' and he proudly filled each one.

The family will honor his final wishes with a private burial officiated by Rev. Ronny Channell. Pall bearers will be grandchildren and great-grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Church of the Redeemed, 12916 Lake Lurleen Road, Coker, AL 35452 or your favorite charity.