Lester L. Vanover, 47, of Middletown, R.I., passed away on April 22, 2025, in Newport, R.I.
He was born July 21st, 1977, in Providence, R.I., to proud parents Willie B. Vanover and Paulette Batey.
To know Lester or “Lex” as many knew him, was to know he was a man with impeccable strength and wisdom. He was a remarkable man with distinguished skills and talents. Lester’s presence was known when he walked in a room, it was larger than life. He brought laughter and joy even in the darkest of days.
Lester was always the first to make a joke and clever with his smart remarks. He lived life to the fullest with no regrets, only lessons learned that shaped him into the great man we were lucky enough to know and love.
He took pride in many things in life, like his savvy style, quick wit, cleverness and in his incredible music and artistic abilities. But what he was most proud of were all eight of his children. All different versions of himself, with his remarkable talents.
Besides his parents, Lester is survived by his children Vanessa, Corrina and Zackery Shepard all of Providence, R.I, Jaden and Nyah Vanover both of Middletown, R.I., Pippa and Charles Hanos both of Middletown, R.I. and Amaeziah Sutphin of Newport, R.I.; Stepson Joseph Shepard of Providence, RI; Six grandchildren, Jose Torres, Javion Shepard, King Shepard, Princeton Shepard, Zhurii’lee Taylor, and Alanni Barbosa all of Providence, R.I.; his brother Willie B. Vanover Jr. of Providence, R.I.; and his sister Myesha Vanover of Waltham, M.A.; as well as several nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.
He was predeceased in death and welcomed with open arms by both his maternal and both paternal grandparents and his grandson Kayden Shepard.
Visitation will be held Thursday, May 1, 2025 from 10:00 am-12:00 pm with his funeral service to follow at 12:00 pm in the Russell J. Boyle & Son Funeral Home, 331 Smith Street, Providence. Burial will be private.
Like Newport Buzz? We depend on the generosity of readers like you who support us, to help with our mission to keep you informed and entertained with local, independent news and content. We truly appreciate your trust and support!
