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His warmth and kindness touched the hearts of many.

Lester Brian Wilson, 59 departed this life on Saturday June 27, 2026. He was born on February 21, 1967 to the late Lester and Jacqueline Wilson.

Lester married the love of his life Andrea in November of 1991. Throughout their 35-year union, they built a beautiful life and raised three amazing children Maya, Ayana and Jalen.

Lester attended the Newark and Irvington Public School systems and in June of 1994 he graduated from the Essex County Police Academy.

Over a 25-year career with the Irvington Police Department, he served in a variety of leadership and specialized assignments. He began in the Patrol Division (1994–2002) before joining the Neighborhood Stabilization Unit as a Narcotics Officer (2002–2003). He later served with the Essex County Anti-Crime Partnership (2003–2006) and the New Jersey State Police Metro North Unit (2006–2009), collaborating with federal, state, county, and local agencies on major crime initiatives.

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leaving a legacy of affection and cherished memories that will forever resonate in our lives.

He was promoted to Sergeant in May 2009, where he led patrol operations and supervised the S.A.F.E. (Strategic Area Field Enforcement) and N.E.T. (Narcotics Enforcement Team) units. He attained Detective Sergeant status in January 2013, was promoted to Lieutenant in May 2013, and in May 2015 was appointed Provisional Captain, overseeing the Operations Plan and Criminal Investigations Bureau, where he remained until his retirement in March 2019 as the rank of Detective Captain.

Throughout his career, Lester received numerous commendations and honors, including the Chamber of Commerce Award, Director’s Award, EACP Division Award, and the Essex County PBA Award, recognizing his dedication, leadership, and commitment to public service. Following retirement, Lester relocated to Charlotte, North Carolina in September 2024, where he continued serving the community as a Lieutenant Officer with Professional SecurityServices.

Lester enjoyed fishing, reading, riding motorcycles, making people laugh, giving back to his community, traveling and spending time with his family.

Lester is preceded in death by his parents Lester and Jacqueline. He leaves to mourn his loving wife of 35 years Andrea, his three children Maya, Ayana, and Jalen. His sister Lorren (Isaiah), three brothers Darien (Kathleen), Eric (Sharette), Terence (Avril) and a host of nieces, nephews and friends who will forever cherish his memory.

"Lester was a devoted family man, overflowing with love for those around him. His warmth and kindness touched the hearts of many, leaving a legacy of affection and cherished memories that will forever resonate in our lives."