Walton couple die within 4 days after 70 years of marriage

June and Arthur Lester, who were 88 and 97 respectively, were married on February 28, 1953, and lived in Walton for nearly 50 years.

The couple made news last year after receiving a letter from the King congratulating them on their 70th anniversary.

The couple said last year that the secret to their happy and long marriage was ‘just be patient with one another’.

June and Arthur Lester on their marriage day 70 years ago (Image: June Lester)

June died earlier this month, on January 18, with Arthur dying just four days later on January 22. Both died peacefully at Statham Manor care home in Lymm. 

With Arthur being from Orford, and June from Walton, after a few years living with parents the pair lived together in Walton for 48 years. They then moved to Wordsworth Avenue in south Warrington, where they lived for 21 years.  

Their granddaughter Sarah, who organised their Diamond anniversary card from the King, nominated June and Lester for grandparents of the year in the Warrington Guardian in 2016. In this nomination she said:

“They truly are the best, they are always available for chats, they are friendly, loving and caring and always welcoming in their home.”

Following their passing, Sarah said: “We would like to thank Warrington Hospital and Statham manor care home for the excellent care they both received from all the staff and for looking after the family with endless cups of tea and biscuits. 

"Their friends and family are going to miss them terribly, but take comfort that they will end their journey together and be together forever.”