Barbara Penelope Hester

Barbara Penelope Hester, born on February 2, 1946, in Bladen County, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on January 28, 2026, at the Lower Cape Fear Angel House in Whiteville, North Carolina. She was a remarkable woman whose life exemplified hard work and endless compassion.

Throughout her career, Barbara thrived as a seamstress among various other professions, showcasing a tireless work ethic that defined her spirit. Known for her feisty and headstrong demeanor, she was an individual who welcomed everyone with open arms, never meeting a stranger. Her generosity and willingness to carry the burdens of others spoke volumes about her caring nature—she believed in lightening the load for those around her, often putting their needs before her own.

Barbara’s honesty garnered her respect from all who knew her. She was upfront and candid, never hesitating to speak her mind, a trait that endeared her to many and allowed friendships to flourish grounded in truth and trust.

Among her many passions, Barbara found joy in the serene beauty of the mountains. Whether it was wading through creeks or rivers, sitting on a bench by the river bend, or simply reveling in the sights and sounds of nature, the mountains were her happy place. She cherished evenings spent around a fire pit, enjoying the camaraderie that these moments brought. Additionally, Barbara had a fondness for exploring mountain shoppes, taking simple pleasure in walking and discovering the charming surroundings. A true seafood lover, she particularly enjoyed oysters, often humorously lamenting that if there had been a Dale's Seafood in the mountains, she may never have returned home.

Barbara is survived by her son, Ken Hester and his wife Linda of Ft. Meyers, Florida; her daughter, Penny Fisher and her husband Kenneth Fisher of Carolina Beach, North Carolina; and her siblings, Libby King, Janet Hughes, Cindy Locklear, and Paul Hughes. She will be lovingly remembered by her grandchildren: Kenneth Pacholl, Summer Jackson, Kenneth J. Hester, and Olivia Hester.

Barbara joins her beloved parents, Hazel Olive Hughes and William Earl Hughes, and her cherished husband, Winford Hester, in eternal rest. Her indomitable spirit, warmth, and unwavering dedication to family and friends will be profoundly missed by all who were fortunate enough to know her.