Funeral Service for Maurice Jerome Lester, 55, of Cannonball, will be held at 1:00 PM, Monday, April 13, 2026, at the Red Gymnasium in Cannonball. Burial will in St. Elizabeth's Catholic Cemetery under the direction of Kesling Funeral Home of Mobridge. A visitation will be held from 11:00 am -1:00 pm, Monday, April 13, at the Red Gym. Maurice passed away, Monday, April 6, 2026, at his home in Cannonball.

Maurice Jerome Lester was born in the heart of the North Dakota winter on January 22,1971. He was welcomed in Fort Yates by his proud parents, Charles Lester, Sr. and Delores Redstone Lester.

Although he was born Maurice, those who knew and loved him called him simply Jerome. He always got a kick out of one of his favorite songs, “The Joker” (The Space Cowboy) because of the line “some people call me Maurice” which perfectly captured his quiet sense of humor. Jerome grew up in his hometown of Cannonball where he began his school days at Cannonball Elementary, later attending Solen High School through the 11th grade. Jerome eventually received his GED and attended the United Tribes Technical College where he received certificates in welding and mechanics.

Jerome married Antoinette Reddogg on June 30, 1999, and they began their life together. For the next 24 years their marriage was filled with trials and tribulations, happiness and joy and the births of their precious children. Sadly, Antoinette left this world on January 19, 2024. Jerome's greatest legacy remains his children: Ryan Thunder Hawk, Janden Lester, Jayanna Lester, Janaya Lester, Jansen Lester, and Kendall Lester. Jerome was further blessed with eight grandchildren: Kovaughn and Laiya Thunder Hawk; and Kenyah, Kamirrah, Kendallyn, Kamily, Kendall, and Kendria Lester. Jerome also held a very special place in his heart for his little nephew, August Plenty Chief, whom he loved and helped care for.

Jerome was a natural artist who could make anything out of nothing and often shared his creations with others. He found inspiration at powwows where he also found joy in watching the dancers, especially his family. He loved to visit and he never turned down a good game of cards or dice. His favorite pastime was mechanics. Jerome had a natural talent for diagnosing and fixing anything that crossed his path. He was known for his generosity, often lending his skills to anyone in need without expectation of anything in return. This spirit of service was most evident in the last years of his life which he dedicated to the care of his mother, Delores. Whether he was fixing her vehicles or driving her wherever she needed to go, Jerome's devotion to her was unwavering. He took great pride in being the person his “Mawa” could always depend on.

Jerome was, above all else, a family man. Beyond his own children and grandchildren, his heart was large enough to encompass a vast circle of aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends whom he loved dearly. He was a man of few words, but he always had a smile on his face. He was a gentle, kind, and caring soul who would do anything asked of him without hesitation. His quiet presence and that familiar smile will be deeply missed by all who knew him and loved him.

He leaves behind his mother Delores, his six children and eight grandchildren, His sisters Carletta (Ernie) Mutchler, Patricia (Anthony) and his brothers Charles, Jr. (Billie), Dustin (Helen), Jeremy (Jessica), Robert White Eagle, and Burdon (Lacey). Jerome also leaves behind his village of aunts, uncles, cousins and extended family who have been a constant source of love and support throughout his life.

Jerome was preceded in death by his wife, Antoinette (Reddogg) Lester; his father, Charles Lester, Sr.; and his brother Burton Lester - along with his beloved grandparents, aunts, and uncles who have gone before him and are now waiting to welcome him home.