Longtime Reliance Resident Paul Richard Hester Sr. Passes Away at 74

Hester was a lifelong Wyoming resident and dedicated 25 years to the state's Department of Transportation before retiring in 2013.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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Paul Richard Hester Sr., a 74-year-old lifelong resident of Reliance, Wyoming, passed away on February 18, 2026 at his home following a lengthy illness. Hester spent 25 years working as a heavy equipment operator for the Wyoming Department of Transportation before retiring in 2013. He was known for his wit, sarcasm, and love of outdoor activities like hunting, fishing, and trapping.

Why it matters

Hester's passing marks the loss of a longtime community member and public servant who dedicated much of his career to maintaining Wyoming's roads and infrastructure. His death is a reminder of the important role state transportation departments play in supporting local communities.

The details

Hester was born on May 15, 1951 in Rock Springs, Wyoming to Ronald Glen Hester and Dorothy Louise Peterson. He attended school in Rock Springs and Denver, Colorado, graduating from Jefferson High School in 1969. Hester married his wife Sheila Kirkwood on January 22, 1972 in Rock Springs. After retiring from the Wyoming Department of Transportation in 2013, Hester spent his time working in his shop and enjoying the outdoors with his family.

  • Hester was born on May 15, 1951.
  • Hester married Sheila Kirkwood on January 22, 1972.
  • Hester worked for the Wyoming Department of Transportation for 25 years, retiring on May 15, 2013.
  • Hester passed away on February 18, 2026.

The players

Paul Richard Hester Sr.

A 74-year-old lifelong resident of Reliance, Wyoming who worked for 25 years as a heavy equipment operator for the Wyoming Department of Transportation before retiring in 2013.

Sheila Hester

Hester's wife of over 50 years.

Ronald Glen Hester

Hester's father.

Dorothy Louise Peterson

Hester's mother.

Kolbi Marie Hester and Ridge Thomas Hester

Hester's two grandchildren.

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The takeaway

Hester's passing is a loss for the Reliance community, which has now lost a longtime public servant and active outdoorsman who was beloved for his wit and dedication to his family. His story serves as a reminder of the important role state transportation departments play in supporting local communities across Wyoming.