Barbara Hester

Barbara Cameron Hester, 77, of Wilson, died Wednesday, March 4, 2026.

Funeral, Monday, 11:00 AM, at First Baptist Church, followed by visitation. Interment, 4:00 PM, at Harnett Memorial Park, Lillington.

Barbara was a 1966 graduate of Boone Trail High School and received her dental assisting degree in 1967 from Alamance Technical Institute. She worked as a dental assistant for 45 years, and retired in 2014 from Drs. Boles, Ham, Dixon and Boles in Wilson. She was active in several professional organizations, including the NC Dental Assistants Association, as well as civic organizations, including the Wilson Golden Circle Optimist Club serving in many capacities, including president. Barbara was a faithful member of First Baptist Church of Wilson.

She is survived by her husband of 58 years, Ralph E. Hester; sons, Brian E. Hester (Daycis) of Chapel Hill and Christopher A. Hester (Mandy Fulghum) of Wilmington; grandson, Aaron Jurado Hester of Chapel Hill; sisters, Frances and Rachel; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, James and Sarah McNeill Cameron, and her siblings, Catherine, Ruth, James Cameron Jr., Charles, and Hugh.

Barbara was a beautiful person inside and out.  She was a caring wife, mother, and grandmother.  Barbara had a giving spirit, always considering others before herself.  She enjoyed her free time baking and cooking for her family or people in the Wilson community.  Barbara sacrificed her time to the benefit of others and will be missed greatly by her family and friends.

Memorials may be made to the Hester Scholarship Fund at First Baptist Church, PO Box 1467, Wilson, NC 27894. These scholarships assist needy, young adults attend colleges or technical schools for further education.

Arrangements by Wilson Memorial Service, 2811 Fieldstream Dr. N, Wilson, (252) 237-7171, www.wilsonmemorialservice.com