James Lester Valiant-Bey

A Celebration of Life James Lester Valiant Bey

James Lester Valiant was born in Chicago to Lester Valiant Sr. and Rosie Lee Hardy and later came to Kansas with his sister, Georgia Valiant , to stay with their Aunt Georgia. Lester leaves behind his biological son, Leslie Valiant, daughter-in-law LaShawn Valiant, Step son Chris Mills step daughter Cheril Simpson-Sims and stepdaughter Sherri Stansbury He also leaves two special nieces, Debra Williamson and Juanita Valiant, a host of grandchildren, nieces, and nephews, along with his lifelong queen, Frances Gilbert. 

A celebration of life is in order for a man who loved life and gave it his all. To know Lester was to love him. His presence filled every room with warmth, strength, and laughter. He was a man with purpose, and his spirit uplifted everyone around him.Lester held many titles—Pops, Uncle Lester, Val-Bey—but no matter what you called him, he brought purpose, love, and light into your life. His spirit will continue to inspire everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

Lester was known for his tireless devotion to others and to God. Many nights, he would go without sleep, helping someone in need or lending his time to serve.His love for his son, Leslie, was effortless and deep—he spoke of him with pride and was always dreaming of ways to support him. His bond with Sherri was just as special; the two were like two peas in a pod, sharing laughter, love, and a connection that could never be broken.Lester was a man of unwavering discipline—principled, intentional, and deeply committed to living by his values. If he said he wouldn’t do something, you could trust that he meant it. His choices were always thoughtful and rooted in conviction.

As a devoted vegan, he stayed true to his beliefs, even in the smallest details. I f a dish had been cooked in grease used for meat, he wouldn’t touch it—not out of judgment, but out of integrity. His honesty was refreshing, and his standards were inspiring.Lester often reminded his family and friends that life is a beautiful thing. He was a firm believer in Love, Truth, Peace, Freedom, and Justice. He would say that we may disagree, but we should never hate—and that love should always lead the way.

As a man of God, Lester lived by Matthew 22:37–39, which teaches us to “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind… and to love your neighbor as yourself.”Lester showed this in his everyday walk with God—through his actions, his words, and his unwavering heart.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at Golden Gate Funeral & Cremation Services, LLC, 2800 E. 18th St., Kansas City, MO 64127. The service will begin at 3:00 PM. There will be no visitation prior to the service.