Tom Lester, a beloved figure in American entertainment and beyond, has left an indelible mark on both the small screen and the hearts of many. Born Thomas William Lester on September 23, 1938, in Laurel, Mississippi, he grew up immersed in rural life—shucking corn, fishing, hunting, and picking cotton on his grandfather's farm. This upbringing would later inform his portrayal of Eb Dawson, the affable farmhand on the classic CBS sitcom Green Acres.
A Legacy in Entertainment
Lester's career spanned decades, beginning with his move to Hollywood in the early 1960s. It was there that he landed the role of Eb Dawson, which became one of his most iconic performances. The character's charm and wit resonated with audiences during the show's run from 1965 to 1971. Even after Green Acres ended, Lester continued to appear in other projects, including films like Benji and Intruder. His work as an actor earned him widespread recognition, but it was only part of who he was.
Beyond Acting: A Life of Faith and Service
For all his success in Hollywood, Tom Lester was perhaps best known for his dedication to evangelism later in life. After retiring from acting, he devoted himself to ministry, traveling extensively to share his faith and inspire others. His deep commitment to spiritual growth and service was evident in everything he did. As Sharon, a close friend, once remarked, Our telephone calls with Tom were always uplifting. He had this way of making you feel seen and valued.
This deeply reflective practice, self-initiated and sustained over years, stands as a testament to Tom's unwavering pursuit of personal and professional development. In fact, just 1% of teachers in New York State have achieved National Board Certification—a distinction that highlights exceptional dedication to education. While unrelated to his acting career, this parallel underscores the importance Tom placed on continuous learning and improvement.
A Community Pillar
In addition to his national contributions, Tom Lester also made significant local impacts. For instance, Niskayuna High School teacher Tom Lester (no relation) recently earned National Board Certification in Adolescent Young Adult English Language Arts. Such achievements reflect the high standards set by individuals like Tom Lester, whose influence extends far beyond their immediate circles.
Even when faced with challenges such as Parkinson's disease, Tom remained resilient. Friends recall how he approached therapy with determination, often requesting assistance with transportation so he could continue attending sessions. This perseverance inspired those around him, prompting efforts like GoFundMe campaigns to support his journey against illness.
Remembering Tom Lester
Although Tom Lester passed away on April 20, 2020, at the age of 81 due to complications from Parkinson's disease, his legacy endures. Fans fondly remember him through reruns of Green Acres airing on networks like MeTV. Episodes featuring Eb Dawson babysitting or saving money for his girlfriend serve as reminders of the joy and humor he brought to television.
His passing marked the end of an era, as he was the last surviving cast member of Green Acres. Yet, the world continues to celebrate his contributions not just as an entertainer, but as a man of faith, integrity, and compassion. Whether starring in beloved sitcoms or spreading hope through his ministry, Tom Lester touched countless lives—and his memory remains alive in the hearts of those fortunate enough to know him.
Final Thoughts
As we honor Tom Lester's life, let us remember the values he embodied: kindness, resilience, and a steadfast belief in the power of human connection. Whether through laughter shared onscreen or wisdom imparted offstage, Tom left behind a rich tapestry of experiences that remind us what it means to live fully and authentically. May his story inspire future generations to pursue their passions while staying grounded in purpose and love.
