The Russellville community is mourning the loss of Jehu Hester, a 71-year-old man who died in a tragic agricultural accident at a poultry farm in Lawrence County. His passing has left family members, friends, and the local farming community grieving the loss of a hardworking and respected figure.
According to authorities, emergency crews were dispatched to a poultry farm on County Road 136 after receiving reports of an individual trapped inside a piece of heavy equipment. The machinery, identified as a chicken litter elevator used to transport poultry waste into tractor-trailers, became the site of a fatal incident. By the time first responders arrived, the situation had shifted from a rescue attempt to a recovery operation.
Officials later identified the victim as Jehu Hester, who was widely known in the agricultural community as a chicken litter broker. Through his work, Hester played a vital role in supporting local farmers by purchasing poultry litter and redistributing it for use as fertilizer, helping sustain agricultural operations throughout the region.
Concerns were first raised when Hester’s truck was discovered running but unattended late Tuesday evening. A search effort followed, ultimately leading farm workers to locate him trapped inside the equipment. Emergency services were immediately notified.
Lawrence County Coroner Scott Norwood confirmed that Hester died from blunt force trauma and ruled the incident an accident. Authorities also noted that this marks the first agriculture-related fatality reported in the county this year, underscoring the inherent risks faced by those working in farming environments.
Hester’s death has deeply impacted those who knew him. Friends, colleagues, and community members remember him as a dedicated worker whose contributions to agriculture and commitment to helping others left a lasting impression.
As loved ones come together to honor his life, Jehu Hester will be remembered for his resilience, kindness, and the important role he played within the farming community. His legacy will live on in the lives he touched and the work he carried out over many years.
The Hester family continues to receive condolences during this difficult time. May they find comfort in cherished memories and strength in the support of those around them. May he rest in peace.
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