Jehu Hester Obituary, LAWRENCE COUNTY, ALABAMA — Jehu Hester, a 71-year-old Russellville man, has died following a tragic agricultural accident at a poultry farm on County Road 136 in Lawrence County. His unexpected passing has left family members, friends, and members of the local farming community mourning the loss of a man remembered for his dedication, hard work, and years of service in agriculture.
According to authorities, emergency crews were called to the poultry farm after receiving reports that an individual had become trapped inside a chicken litter elevator, a piece of heavy equipment used in agricultural operations to move poultry litter into tractor-trailers. When first responders arrived, the situation had turned from a rescue effort into a recovery operation.
Officials identified the victim as Jehu Hester, who was known throughout the agricultural community as a chicken litter broker. Hester worked closely with poultry farmers, purchasing poultry litter and providing it to others for use as fertilizer, contributing to the continued operations of local farming businesses.
Authorities said concerns about Hester’s whereabouts began after his truck was found running but unattended on Tuesday night. The discovery led to a search effort, which ended when farm workers located Hester trapped inside the equipment and contacted emergency services.
Lawrence County Coroner Scott Norwood determined that Hester died from blunt force body trauma, and the death was ruled accidental. Officials noted that the incident marked the first agriculture-related fatality reported in Lawrence County this year, highlighting the risks faced by workers in the farming industry.
Hester’s death serves as a reminder of the dangers involved in agricultural work and the dedication of those who help support communities through their labor. Those who knew him remember a hardworking individual whose commitment to agriculture made a lasting impression on the people around him.
As family, friends, neighbors, and members of the farming community gather to honor his life, Jehu Hester will be remembered for his contributions, kindness, and the legacy he leaves behind. His memory will continue to live on among those whose lives he touched.
The Hester family is receiving condolences during this difficult time. May they find comfort in the memories shared with Jehu and the impact he made throughout his life. May he rest in peace.