Lesley S. Rector (Stan), 78, of New Hope, Tennessee, departed this life on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, at a local hospital following a long and debilitating battle with a rare disorder.
Throughout his illness, Stan showed remarkable strength, determination, and a steadfast hope that never wavered. He met every setback with resolve and every small victory with gratitude, always holding onto the belief that better days were ahead.
He completed treatment in December 2024 and had much hope for 2025, however, with much sadness, he has joined those that preceded him in death. Those include his parents, Samuel and Vesta Rector; his sister, Katie Whited; brothers in law, Darwin Choate, Donnie Powell, Herschel Whited, and Wayne Harrison; his in-laws Reverend Arvell Smith and Cora Smith, brother-in-law, Danny Smith and nephew, Nathan Smith.
Survivors include his spouse, Helen Smith Rector; son, Lesley Rector Jr.; daughter, Lindsey Rector, and grandson, Owen Pilsbury; sisters, Jaquetta Powell Harrison and Shirley (Danny) Dancy; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family.
A graveside service will be held on Friday, May 16, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. (CDT) at the Straightway Cemetery, Bryant, Al., which will be his final resting place. Officiating will be Pastor Donavon Whited.
There will be no public visitation.
In lieu of flowers, donations to The Alzheimer’s Association, The American Cancer Society, or MARC would be a great honor as these organizations were very special to him.