Josie Guyton "Joey" Hester

Josie Guyton “Joey” Hester, 88, of Durham, North Carolina, passed away peacefully at Hock Family Pavilion Tuesday, September 17, 2024. She was born in Bladenboro, North Carolina, on February 14, 1936, to the late Stately and Lallie Mae Guyton.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husbands, John F. Tatum, L.B. Ellis and Richard Hester; son, Wayne Tatum; daughter, Betty Sue Ellis Hill; sister, Pansy Herring; brother, Garfield Guyton.

Mrs. Hester is survived by her daughters, Janet Herndon and husband Tracy of Henderson, North Carolina, Sandra Ellis Sweet and husband Russell, Beverly Lingerfeldt and husband Ted; son Rick Hester and wife Linda; several grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews..

Joey was the owner and operator of The Grove Café in Oak Grove Community for more than 50 years. She touched many lives at “The Grove” while serving customers their favorite dishes. She will be deeply missed by all that knew her and the Oak Grove Community. She was a member of Gorman Baptist Church.

A memorial service will be held Sunday September 22, 2024, at 4 p.m. at Gorman Baptist Church with Reverend Craig Phelps and Dr. Gerald Goodwin officiating. Immediately follow the memorial service a visitation and celebration of Joey’s life will be held in the church Fellowship Hall with opportunity to speak to Joey’s family and share memories of how she touched your life. Light snacks will be provided.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Duke Hospice Hock Family Pavilion.