In Memory

Lister B. Florence

Lister B. Florence

      Lister B. Florence

Lister passed away on January 15, 2021 in DeSoto, Mississippi. He was a native of Tuskegee, Alabama and a resident of Hattiesburg, Mississippi. After graduation from high school, Lister enlisted in the United States Air Force as a Bomb loader then cross-trained to a Military Intelligence Specialist. While on duty, his tours were world-wide. During his years of service, Lister met and later married his love for life, Katie (Peach) Shanks on October 3, 1975. Lister's military career on Active Duty would surpass twenty-one years. He retired from Active Duty Air Force at the senior enlisted rank of Technical Sergeant in April 1987. After retiring from active duty, Lister was selected for and accepted employment by the highly prestigious National Security Agency (NSA) working at Fort Meade, Maryland/Fort Gordon, Georgia beginning in 1987. While serving in that capacity, Lister was lauded for his expertise. He retired from the NSA after serving for more than twenty-five years, then he and Katie moved from Georgia to DeSoto/Hattiesburg, Mississippi, where they joined Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church. There, Lister grew in the church and The Word of God. He was a devout member and served by operating the Sound System Ministry and was a dedicated member of the church. Lister also volunteered by assisting eligible elderly and military retirees with administrative support and advocacy to assist with the healthcare program applications processes. Lister drew his last breath while doing what he was best known for... helping a friend in need. That was the most predominate characteristic that exemplified the heart of "this man." Simply put, he made your mission his mission and he worked diligently to bring it to fruition. Lister was a tall, husky, handsome fellow who casted a big shadow but had a quiet demeanor and a soft-spoken nature. He always had an ear which was lent liberally, to listen to praise reports and the woes of those close to him, to provide a word-offering to encourage or comfort and a hand always made available to cheer you upward. He made time to be the son that an elderly Mother, so wanted and needed to brighten up her life and she nicknamed him, "ListerSon." He continued to make time to visit her, even after he and Katie moved so many miles away. He was a neighbor and a brother to many. Lister loved to travel, loved sports cars and loved meeting and talking to people who were down to earth, like he was. He didn't wear a mask. He was a “what you see is what you get” sorta guy. Lister loved his wife, Katie and his primary goal was to ensure she was happy. His dedication and commitment to his wife were evident and were without shame or apology. That was who he was. Lister always gave back to others. That was always who Lister was...even into his last breath! "His Lord said unto him. Well done, thou good and faithful servant" Matthew 25:21. Lister was preceded in death by his parents and brother Chester in 2020. Survivors included his wife, Katie; siblings: Barbara, Pearlie, Ethel, Irene and Kevan Florence; two children: son Lister Florence and daughter Tonya Florence; several grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles, in-laws and life-long friends who both mourn his absence from this earth and celebrate his life and his Presence With The Lord. 2 Corinthians 5:8

Information from Berry and Gardner Funeral Home - Quitman Chapel, Quitman, Mississippi online on January 21, 2021