Bijou Yang Lester

Bijou Yang Lester, an extraordinary woman whose life was a beacon of love, wisdom, and kindness, passed away peacefully on August 13, 2024, at the age of 74, after a courageous battle with dementia. Born on January 31, 1950, in Taiwan, she brought light into the world with her gentle spirit and unwavering optimism. Bijou's journey from Taiwan to becoming a distinguished academic in the United States is a testament to her determination and intellect. She earned her PhD in Economics from the University of Pennsylvania, setting the stage for a remarkable career as an economics professor at Drexel University. Her passion for teaching and her commitment to her students left an indelible mark on countless lives, inspiring many to pursue their own academic dreams. On October 23, 1988, Bijou married the love of her life, David Lester, in New Jersey. Their marriage was a beautiful partnership that spanned over 35 years, filled with shared laughter, travel, and a deep love for academic collaboration. Together, they raised two wonderful children, Andrew and Cindy, instilling in them the values of kindness, curiosity, and resilience. Bijou's heart was as vast as her intellect. Known for her kind spirit and beautiful smile, she was always ready with a warm hug and words of encouragement for those around her. Her compassionate nature and infectious positivity were a source of comfort and strength to her family and friends. An avid traveler, Bijou had an insatiable curiosity about the world. Her adventures took her to many corners of the globe, where she gathered stories, experiences, and friendships that enriched her life and those of her loved ones. Bijou is survived by her devoted husband, David Lester, her beloved children, Andrew (Vicki) and Cindy (Ryan), and her cherished grandchildren, who were her pride and joy. She also leaves behind six younger brothers and her loving mother, who was a constant source of support throughout her life. Bijou is predeceased by her father, whom she adored. Her legacy continues through her three grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, who will carry forward her spirit of kindness and love. Bijou Yang Lester's life was a beautiful tapestry woven with threads of love, knowledge, and compassion. Her memory will forever be cherished by those who had the privilege of knowing her, and her spirit will continue to inspire all who were touched by her grace. A private memorial service will be held to honor Bijou's life. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to support dementia research, continuing Bijou's lifelong dedication to education and helping others.