Sadness gripped the Brundidge community Friday as the news of the death of local business owner Gary Hester began to circulate.

Hester owned and operated the Diamond Fantasies jewelry store in downtown Brundidge for about 15 years.

Dixie Shehane, Brundidge Business Association president, said she joined the BBA membership in expressing deepest sympathy to Hester’s family.

“Gary has been a part of our business community for many years,” Shehane said. “He was supportive of all BBA activities and was always willing to be a part of community events. He was there to help and do what he could. Gary was a good man in every way. He took pride in his business and in the entire Brundidge community.”

Jimmy Hollis, who was a fellow merchant with Hester, agreed that Hester was dedicated to the Brundidge community.

“Gary worked hard in his business and made every effort to help keep the downtown retail business area afloat,” Hollis said. “He was honest in all his dealings and was easy to work with. Gary was a very likeable fellow and an asset to Brundidge. He has been on Main Street for a long time and he will be missed.”

Hester participated in the annual Peanut Butter Festival with his church, the Cathedral of Praise Assembly of God.

“That’s where I got to know him best,” Hollis said. “He was a dedicated Christian and it showed through his actions.”

Funeral arrangements will be announced later by Green Hills Funeral Home.