Steve graduated from Center Grove High School, class of 1964. In the spring of 1969, Steve received his first of many degrees, Bachelor of Arts, in Sociology from the University of Evansville. Steve was an avid learner, and in the fall of 1996, Steve completed a double Master of Arts in Theological and Historical Studies from Oral Roberts University. To round out his educational endeavors, in 2000, Steve completed a Doctorate of Ministry, again from Oral Roberts University.
In 1980 Steve married Carol “Sue” (Watson) Jester, who survives. Sue brought four daughters to their marriage, who also survive: Sophia (Max) Beal, Goshen, IN. Sara Gehrich Brown (David Brown) Fishers, IN. N Suzanne (Todd) Coffey, Floyds Knobs, IN. Sasha (Roy) Piatt, Mooresville, IN. Steve was blessed with six grandchildren. Erin, Madeline, Gillian Coffey and Cole, Quinn, and Tristan Piatt.
Sue and the entire family would like to thank St. Vincent Home Hospice. A very special thank you to care provider Daniel Goodin, RN for the patience, compassionate care, and kindness provided to Steve and Sue during Steve’s extended illness.
A memorial service is planned for August 5, 2017, at Indiana Funeral Care, Harry W. Moore Chapel, 8151 Allisonville Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46250.
Calling will be held from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service at 1:00 p.m.
A Celebration will follow. Family and friends will be received following the services at the Brown Residence, 8771 Randall Dr., Fishers, IN 46038
Correspondence may also be mailed to the above address in Sue’s name or On-Line condolences maybe shared at indianafuneralcare.com.
Thomson Mathew says
I will miss this faithful servant of God. He touched many, including his professors, personally, professionally and spiritually. Grateful I knew him as one who joyfully finished his course.
Thomson Mathew
Professor of Pastoral Care and Former Dean
Oral Roberts University College of Theology and Ministry
Raymond K. Smith Associate Professor of Missions Oral Roberts University College of Theology and Ministry says
I met Steve when he and I were fellow students in the then ORU School of Theology and Missions. His love for God and the church were evident to all who met him. I am grateful to have been his friend. Truly, he will be missed by many who were blessed to have known him.
Well done, my brother; well done.
James F. Breckenridge says
I cannot believe that Steve is gone! He was/is so much a contemporary–bringing a spark to his classes, always an encouragement to his teachers. Both Steve and his wife had and have distinguished contributions to our school life here at ORU. We well remember visiting together during our first year in the Seminary. He will not be forgotten!
Larry Hart says
Steve was a blessing to us all. He will be missed. Sue, family, and loved ones are in our prayers.
Trevor Grizzle, PhD, Professor of NT says
Steve was a fine Christian gentleman. I remember him fondly as one who loved God and loved people, gracious, filled with joy, an encourager. His contribution to my classes were always riich and insightful. He will be greatly missed. May Sue and all family, relatives, and friends experience God’s peace and be encouraged by Steve’s life that was rich and full and lived for the glory of God.
Jen says
My deepest condolences to the Jester family. Even though I didn’t have the pleasure of knowing Mr. Stephen Jester, their love for each other is a rare and beautiful thing. Although death is heartbreaking. For that reason I would like to share a comforting hope given to us by our God found in Isaiah 25: 8 – “He will swallow up death forever, and the sovereign lord Jehovah will wipe away the tears from all faces.” May the hope of this promise comfort your minds and hearts. If you would like to learn more about this comforting hope, please visit JW.org.
Brad H. Young, Ph.D. Tenured Professor of Judaic-Christian Studies, Graduate Theology, ORU says
Dr. Steve’s death is a cause of deep anguish and grief for all of us who were blessed to see his bright smile, spiritual energy, and resourceful service in the advancing of God’s kingdom. Even so, we do not grieve without hope. This makes heaven so much more precious. Steve was a dear friend and an awesome man of God. Our prayers for comfort and condolence for his family and many friends are prayed with our sharing this immense loss with them. He fought the good fight and was faithful in his service for others. He always shared rich spiritual and scholarly insights. He was a Christ-like example who was a doer of the word. I will miss him. His physical pain is ended. May the Holy Spirit give comfort to his loved ones and especially to Sue his beloved partner in faith and mission.
Donald and shaun says
I was sadden when I hear this, Steve was like a grandpa to my family.. we moved in next store to them in 2005 in Tulsa, ok… He was always telling jokes and stories to us, I was joke with him I was going to take patches the cat I loved… He will be missed.. see ya someday again.. Sue I’m here if you need me. God bless
Marye Lou Camp says
Steve and Sue were special friends when I moved from Texas to work at ORU for 9 years after which I moved back to my beloved Texas. Sue and Steve became a mentor to me spiritually. My children Abby, Amanda, and Trey adored Steve and Sue and miss them also.
I am so looking forward to seeing Steve again in heaven! Love you so much, Sue!