Lester Douglas Pelley passed away at home on July 10, 2024, in Madison, WI, after a fourteen-year battle with Parkinson's Disease. He was born on April 11, 1942, in St. John's, Newfoundland, Canada, the son of Ralph R. Pelley and Jennie B. Hudson Pelley.

He attended high school in St. John's, and at age 19 he left his beloved Newfoundland to attend Atlantic Union College in Massachusetts. He was graduated cum laude in 1965 with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting. He earned his college expenses by working in the College Broom Shop.

On June 10, 1969, he married Judith Darlene Ball, whom he met in college. They celebrated 55 years together in 2024.

Lester's career spanned 43 years in various roles within financial administration for Seventh-day Adventist Church institutions, both at Atlantic Union College in Massachusetts and Pennsylvania Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. One of his greatest satisfactions was mentoring and befriending the many college students who worked in his departments.

His primary hobby was first and foremost classical music, either live or played on quality equipment. He took great pride in the first set of components and speakers he purchased. His greatest joy was returning to Newfoundland for annual visits. After 2000, he was proud to hold dual US and Canadian citizenships.

At the age of 19, he was baptized into the Seventh-day Adventist Church and was a lifelong member. He was also active in his local church and served as the treasurer for 17 years.

Lester was a dignified gentleman. A gentleman through and through.

Lester was predeceased by siblings Olive, Sylvia, Ralph and niece Jeannine. He is survived by wife Judith Darlene Ball Pelley, son Attorney Douglas Scott Pelley (Ingrid Satelmajer) and daughter Dr. Elaine Michelle Pelley (Benjamin Shoemaker) and four precious grandchildren Ryan, Alison, Derek, and Natalie. Also surviving are a brother Rudolph (Mo) Pelley, niece Barbara Pelley Montaperto, nephew Bruce Pelley, and nieces and nephews in Newfoundland.

There will be no formal funeral services held. Burial will occur at a later time.

We extend our profound appreciation to Brighton Hospice of Madison, WI; Senior Helpers of Madison, WI; and to Pastor Loren Nelson and the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Monona, WI.

In lieu of flowers, remembrance donations may be made to any of these organizations. To view and sign this guestbook, please visit: www.ryanfuneralservice.com

Ryan Funeral Home & Cremation Services

Verona Chapel

220 Enterprise Drive

608-845-6625

Lester Pelley

April 11, 1942 - July 10, 2024

Send Local Flowers & Gifts for Lester

Categories