Susan SueKatt (Dotson) Lester

With profound sadness and a broken heart, we announce the passing of Susan “SueKatt” Lester, age 66, a prominent and proud resident of “Hornetville” in Phelps, KY.  Susan passed away on January 28th, 2026, at the University of Kentucky Medical Center in Lexington, KY. 

Susan was born on November 1st, 1959, in Pikeville, KY, the beloved daughter of the late Earl & Lucille (Mounts) Dotson.  In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by her husband of 25 years, Jeffery “Big Sid” Lester, and her brother, Larry Earl Dotson.

SueKatt as she was fondly called by everyone who loved her, was such a special woman in so many ways.  She began her career as a fuel attendant/relief driver for the Pike County School Board and moved up to being a bus driver full time and a driver trainer instructor.  She loved all the kids she encountered, and they all looked up to her. She also worked alongside her good friends in the bus garage, Matt, Bubba and Melvin Jr.  SueKatt was a mentor to so many kids.  She helped coach little league baseball for years.  SueKatt was a huge supporter and dedicated fan of the Phelps Hornets, University of Kentucky athletics and the Chicago Cubs, that was a huge part of her life that she enjoyed thoroughly.  Many of SueKatt’s days were spent with the S&S crew, porch sitting with a good cup of coffee, and playing horseshoes.  She was a mother figure and friend to many.  She was very appreciative of the Phelps Volunteer Fire Department for everything they had done for her.

She leaves behind her children, Ryan (Hope) Coleman, Maynard Coleman Jr., Drew (Tasha) Lester, and Matt Lester; a special daughter she loved as her very own, Kourtney (Corey) Dotson; her treasured siblings, Brenda Dotson Blair and George Dotson; nephews, Joey (Constance) Dotson, Chad (Cassie) Blair, Cooper Blair, Joseph Dotson and Kannon Dotson; niece, Kimberly Carroll; great nieces, Callie, Clara, Enzley, and Everlee; and her beloved dog, Sadie Mae.  She was Granny Sue to Parker Coleman, Gracen Lester, Seth Falconer, Ariona Young, and Tanner Graham. 

SueKatt leaves behind a host of friends, extended family and a community that truly loved her.  She loved with every ounce of her being and never hesitated to show kindness and compassion to anyone.  Her spirit was fierce and unforgettable.  If you knew SueKatt, then you knew love. 

The family would like to invite friends on Saturday, January 31st, 2026 at 6:00 P.M. for visitation and service at 7:00 P.M. with Pastor Jimmy Fields officiating at the Jones & West Funeral Home located at 37035 State Highway 194 East. 

Funeral services will begin at 12:00 Noon on Sunday, February 1st, 2026 in the chapel with Pastor Opie Ray Harris officiating.  Honoring SueKatt’s wishes, cremation will take place after the funeral. 

The Jones & West Funeral Home is honored to serve the Lester Family.  Our guestbook may be viewed online at www.joneswestfh.com.

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