Carroll Brice Jester, longtime member of Houston Fire Company, passed away on December 2. In addition to serving as president, Jester held the positions of first, second and third assistant chief as well as Superintendent of Building. Jester also served as Director with the Kent County Volunteer Firefighter’s Association. He was 71.
Born on August 11, 1954, Jester’s legacy is one of integrity, hard work and heartfelt commitment to his community and his loved ones.
Jester served as Park Superintendent for the City of Milford for the majority of his career. He was known for his tireless effort and deep affection to keep Milford beautiful. In his spare time, he drove a mail truck for R.E. Callaway. Retirement did not slow Jester down as he discovered a passion for landscaping, opening his own business, C&B Landscaping, allowing him to continue his mission to beautify his surroundings.
A pillar of the community, Jester served with Houston Volunteer Fire Company for more than 54 years. He served as chief, but was known to mentor firefighters, teaching and encouraging them through their journeys. His accolades reflect the respect he garnered, having receive the title of Firefighter of the Year multiple times and Delaware State Chief President from 1997to 1998.
Family was the core of Jester’s being and he cherished the time he spent with his daughter, Olivia, with whom he shared brunches and adventures that built lasting memories. His grandson, Braxton, was always close by, whether fishing or celebrating achievements from the sidelines of Braxton’s soccer games. He was a loving brother to Cindy Sprout and Joyce Jester. He was also a supportive figure to many nieces and nephews who admired him deeply.
Jester had an unwavering commitment to standing up for what was right, and he was respected for his honesty and forthrightness. He had remarkable ability to connect with people, extending his helping hand to those in need without expecting anything in return.
Social media reflected Jester’s warm personality and zest for life as there was tremendous outpouring of sympathy when news of Jester’s passing was announced by his daughter.
“It is with the heaviest heart that I share the passing of my father, Carroll Brice Jester,” Olivia Spring Caroline Jester posted. “Dad was called home to heaven this morning after being surrounded by so many loved ones. My dad was so much more than a father. He was a firefighter, a protector and a true servant to his community. He dedicated his life to helping others, always putting himself second. His heart for service was unmatched and the impact he made will live on in every life he touched. He was an incredible Pop-Pop and best friend to Brax. His bond with his grandson was something truly special and his legacy will continue through him.”
Olivia continued that the family was devastated at the loss of her father, but also very proud of the man he was. The comments on Jester’s social media indicate that her words were correct, that Jester touched many lives.
“Pulling into Wharton Street is not going to be the same,” Sharon Deputy Smith posted. “You looked out for us during a time when I wasn’t sure what my next move would be. You lectured and cheered for us in the highlights of learning to do chores I didn’t think we could do. Houston lost a friend that loved his family, his neighbors and his fire service family dearly.”
Dana Harvey Hockensmith commented that Jester had “gained his wings” and that he remembered the good times they spent camping over the summer.
“Carroll Jester, you were such a great man! The pleasure of knowing you is an honor in itself,” Samantha Carlson said. “I will always cherish the memories from when I was young to the memories I have of you now. Some include always being at your house hanging out with Olivia, marching in parades and pulling hand carts to go riding in the Model A with you. To say you made a great impact on my life would be an understatement.”
Eric Ross posted a tribute to Jester on social media as well.
“I sit here now, finally gathering the words I want to say. I grew up around the firehouse and the Town of Houston my whole life and remain there today,” Ross commented. “Just like anyone else, you can’t go anywhere near there without learning who Carroll Jester is and what he is about. If you’re involved in the fire service in the State of Delaware, if oyu didn’t know him personally, you at least knew of his name. I spent my whole life learning from him.”
Ross continued.
“He was always the one that would check on me and talk to me from a very young age,” the post read. “He watched me grow up. When I became a father, he was the first person at the firehouse to meet Arlo because he came rushing across the front pad. He always asked how my family was doing. “They’re growing like weeds,” he would always say. He would remind me that I am a good father. He would consistently tell me that I am a good leader. I would always brush that off, because there is no way I could ever fill the shoes he left behind.”
Ross wrote that Jester was a pioneer in progression, standards and providing the best service to his own and surrounding communities.
“He would talk to anyone that would listen, and they absolutely should have been listening,” Ross said. “He would talk to anyone that would listen, and they absolutely should have been listening. He had been around the block a few times and carried a plethora of knowledge everywhere he went. Some would say that he could be a thorn in their side. I can proudly say that I think he was a book of matches and a can of gas. Always looking to light a fire under someone’s ass to be better than they think they can.”
Ross stated that he felt Jester’s presence as he rode in what he called Jester’s “pride and joy.”
“I couldn’t help but grin ear to ear the whole time,” Ross wrote. “I felt his presence the entire time throughout the engine. The only thing missing was the non-stop conversation the whole ride. What I wouldn’t give to have just one more talk. You would’ve talked my ear off about the upcoming year and how good of a job you expect me to do. You were my biggest supporter. The last few days have been harder than anyone knows. I will miss you until the end of my time. Rest easy, Chief. Keep your guiding hand on me as I navigate this. Next adventure. I will not let you down.”
Olivia asked anyone with photos of her father to reach out to her through social media. She also announced details about his services which will be held Saturday, December 13 from 11 AM to 1 PM at Houston Volunteer Fire Company where friends are welcome to pay their respects and share memories. Immediately following, there will be a service. After the service, Jester will be interred in Saint Johnstown Cemetery in Greenwood. Fellowship will follow at Houston Fire Company Banquet Hall located at 143 Broad Street, Houston.
