Theodore N. Hester Jr.

Theodore N. Hester, Jr., fondly known as “Teddy,” lived a life filled with purpose, commitment and love. He was born in Harlem, New York, on July 17, 1942. Teddy was the eldest son of the late Apostle Theodore N. Hester, Sr., ThD, MRE, and the late Mother Rose E. Woodson Hester.

He transitioned to Heavenly Rest on May 15, 2026.

After attending grade school in Harlem, Teddy and his parents relocated to Boston, MA, where he graduated with honors from Central High School. He furthered his education at the New England Conservatory of Music and excelled as a gifted pianist and organist. His musical training led him to play hymns and gospels in his father’s church, the Refuge Church of Christ in Roxbury, MA, where he served as Choir Director. Teddy also formed a gospel group that later opened for artists such as the renowned Shirley Caesar and The Caravans.

Ted’s thirst for knowledge drew him to the medical profession. He attended some of the finest institutions New England has to offer: Northeastern University, Massachusetts General Hospital — Institute of Health Professions, and Brigham and Women’s Hospital at Harvard Medical School, to name a few. His accreditations included RN through Primary Care NP. His professional focus spanned HIV and AIDS during the height of the 1980s epidemic to Gerontology where he served decades later as a Primary Care Nurse Practitioner. Teddy defined himself as “a driven professional who placed the patient’s health and welfare above all else.” Because of his academic brilliance and attendance at multiple universities, some warmly dubbed him a ‘professional student.’ To his family, Teddy was “our family doctor.”

Ted lived his life to the fullest.

Teddy possessed a witty sense of humor which left everyone in awe! Scrabble pros had nothing on Ted! His mastery of English vocabulary was extensive, impressive, and exceptional! As he once posted on Facebook, “The sky’s the limit, so don’t limit yourself if your intent is to do good.” A bonafide foodie, if anyone said, “let’s eat out,” Teddy was good to go! He had a passion for various cuisines but rarely ate alone. He preferred to introduce Mother Rose, Carl, Beth, and his nephews to some of the most exclusive eateries in Boston. Teddy led the Boston Family caravan to every joy filled annual reunion held at Connecticut’s Holiday Hills. Ted was on a first name basis with the Apple Store. A collector of fine leather accessories, cool shoes, and electronic gadgetry, he will be sorely missed by Amazon! Speaking of pleasures, Ted’s four-legged fur babies, Goliath and Blessings were more than pets. They were cherished companions whose love he valued every day.

Teddy was a prayerful and trusted believer who leaned on The Word and a man after God’s heart. He is survived by loving siblings Carlton Hester and Denise “Beth” Hester. Nephews: Michael Jarrett, Tyrhe Polite, Marc Hester, Jesse Hester, Tyrone Hester, Moses Polite and Robert Kelsey. First cousins: Patricia Holloway, Jacqueline Smalls, Wendy Johnson; generations of cousins, and a lifetime of dear friends and colleagues.

We respected and trusted our beloved Teddy and comforted knowing that he is resting in the Arms of our Lord Jesus Christ.

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