Donald Phillip Lester

Donald “Phillip” Lester Jr., 38, of Champaign, IL, passed away on November 14, 2025, at the hospital. Born on November 7, 1987, in St. Louis, MO, Phillip resided the last years of his life at Swann Special Care Center of Champaign, IL where he received the most wonderful love and care when away from family.

Life put distance where love never did. He loved music and loved being a son, brother, and uncle. Phillip’s life was different from most but never small. He was born facing many challenges in life, unable to walk, talk or see, and suffered from cerebral palsy and hydrocephalus, spending most of his life in a wheelchair. Phillip never let the challenges of life stop or slow him down. His smile was sure to shine a bright light wherever he was present.  Phillip participated for several years in the Special Olympics in distance softball throwing where he won many medals, “such a strong arm”.

From his loving mother and biggest cheerleader, “He was the best son a mother could possibly love.” Phillip is survived by his mother, Charlotte Greenway of Cobden, IL; sister and brother-in-law, Nicole and Christopher Beaird; nephew, Colton of Grand Tower, IL; sister, Charley Smith of Cobden, IL; and niece and nephews, Rylan, Kynleigh, and Daxtyn.  “Forever in our hearts.”

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