Dr. Magalene Hester

Dr. Magalene Hester, a devoted educator, accomplished social worker, and tireless advocate for children and families, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of service, scholarship, and strength. She was born on June 6, 1943, in Monroe, Georgia, to Maggie Elizabeth Ansley and Zeo Pledger. From an early age, Magalene exhibited a deep curiosity for learning and a heart for helping others—traits that would define her life’s journey. A proud graduate of Carver High School in Monroe, Georgia, Magalene pursued higher education with unwavering determination. She earned her Bachelor’s degree from Fort Valley State College, a historically Black college known for nurturing leaders with a sense of purpose and pride. She later advanced her education at Wayne State University, where she obtained her Master’s degree in Social Work, and ultimately achieved the pinnacle of academic success with a Doctorate in Education (Ed.D.). Dr. Hester’s professional career spanned several decades and included impactful roles across Michigan’s public service and educational systems. She began her career as a Probation Officer for the Wayne County Juvenile Court, advocating for the rehabilitation and protection of youth in crisis. She went on to serve as Program Coordinator and Supervisor of the Child Abuse Division within the Detroit Health Department, where her dedication to vulnerable children made a lasting impression on both colleagues and families. Her commitment to the field of social work extended into academia. Dr. Hester served as a faculty member at both Wayne State University and the Wayne County Community College District, where she mentored future social workers and educators, always emphasizing integrity, cultural competence, and the importance of advocacy. Magalene held numerous leadership roles within the National Association of Black Social Workers, including the position of President. Her voice was often sought in national conversations around social justice and child welfare. She received multiple awards and honors throughout her career, recognizing her for outstanding service, professional excellence, and her passionate leadership. Faith was an integral part of Dr. Hester’s life. She was an active member of the Church of New Covenant and also worshipped with the congregation at Hartford Memorial Baptist Church in Detroit, Michigan. Her spirituality was quietly powerful—expressed in her compassion, her resilience, and her unwavering belief in the potential of every individual. Dr. Hester was preceded in death by her loving parents: Maggie Elizabeth Ansley and Zeo Pledger; her sisters: Beatrice Holloway, and Sara Nell Hester; her nephew: Calvin Hester; nieces: Patricia Ann White, and Alice Momon; and her longtime companion and dear friend, Joseph Covington. She is survived by her beloved niece: Agatha Maxine (Harvey) Lawson of Monroe, GA; her nephews: Byron (Patsy) Hester and Charles White, Sr. (both of Monroe, GA); her cherished son: Joseph Covington, Jr. (Detroit, MI); her devoted sisters: Alice Jackson and Beverly (Eugene) Elrod (Atlanta, GA), and a host of extended family and dear friends in both Georgia, Alabama, and Michigan who were touched by her warmth, wisdom, and unwavering support. To know Magalene Hester was to know a woman of purpose—deeply intelligent, unwavering in principle, and rich in empathy. Her influence stretched across classrooms, courtrooms, and communities. Though her physical presence will be missed, her legacy lives on in the countless lives she uplifted and the example she set for generations to follow. Celebration of Life for Dr. Magalene Hester will be 12:00 noon Tuesday, May 13, 2025 in the Chapel of Young-Levett Funeral Home, Monroe. Interment will be in Hill Haven Memory Gardens, Monroe. Her viewing will be from 12:00 Noon - 8:00 P.M. Monday, May 12, 2025. The Celebration of Life Services will be recorded and streamed live. If the event is interrupted at any time due to technical issues, the entire event will be uploaded and available to view later in the day. Please copy and paste the link to share, or simply click on the link to view the event. https://vimeo.com/event/5123920 Young-Levett Funeral Home, MONROE CHAPEL, 770-267-2642.

Dr. Magalene Hester

June 6, 1943 - May 2, 2025

Explore

About Us

Grief & Healing

What We Do

Obituaries

Plan Ahead

Resources

Contact Info

Dr. Magalene Hester

June 6, 1943 - May 2, 2025

365 Days of Grief Support

Explore

About Us

Grief & Healing

What We Do

Obituaries

Plan Ahead

Resources

Contact Info