Lester Ray DeBusk

Posted on January 14, 2026

Lester Ray DeBusk was born in Tazewell, Tenn., to his parents, Clayton and Rosa DeBusk. He died Jan. 8, 2026 at the age of 91. His family spent many years in Mi chigan before later returning to Florida. He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force for four years. Following his military service, Lester married Joyce Broadwater. Together they had a son, Shelby Wayne DeBusk, who was married to Annette Hester DeBusk. Pastor DeBusk was blessed with one granddaughter, Ashley Nichole DeBusk, as well as a step-grandson, Kenny Porr, and a stepgranddaughter, Jennifer Porr. Lester devoted 58 years to Christian ministry. He attended Clear Creek Baptist College in Pineville, Ky., and following his education, pastored several churches in Michigan. He and his family later returned to Florida, where he continued faithfully serving in ministry for many decades. During his ministry, Pastor DeBusk pastored Athena Baptist Church in Perry, Mt. Nebo Baptist Church in Bell, Carol Estates Baptist Church in Gainesville and Country Cross Roads Baptist Church in Gainesville. Upon retirement, he purchased property in Waldo, where he spent the remainder of his life. A memorial service honoring the life of Lester Ray DeBusk will be held on Saturday, Jan. 31, at 2 p.m., at First Baptist Church of Waldo. Please visit his memorial page at www.williamsthomas funeralhome.com. For further information, contact Williams-Thomas in Gainesville (352-376-7556).