Lester Mallett

Lester Mallett, age 92, passed away Sunday, July 28, 2024 at his home in Tennessee surrounded by family. He was born June 9, 1932 to the late Walter and Susie Mallett.

Lester took pride in building his life from humble beginnings. He came from a small fishing village in North Florida where he shared a home with nine siblings. He often said some of his best years were when he was in the U. S. Army. He loved the camaraderie of the military and was proud to have served. At age 25 he went into real estate with his brother, Walter, and began developing property in Florida. Lester also went into the orange grove business with partners and had a pecan orchard in Georgia. He took particular delight in influencing Dewey Mitchell and Alan Crumbley and mentoring them when they graduated. Their business became one of the largest in real estate in the Tampa Bay area which made Lester proud. He imparted his wisdom to many and uniquely envisioned potential in undeveloped land. He and partners developed successful communities SteepleChase and Citrus Green. Lester’s perfect day was spent 40+ miles out to sea spear fishing, then coming home to clean the fish and share bags of fresh grouper with friends. Lester was also an avid boater and scuba diver. He enjoyed spontaneous travel as well as traveling all over the United States to attend FSU football games. Lester was a huge fan and a booster for over 33 years. Despite the ravages of Alzheimer’s he was wonderful to assist his granddaughter with homework.

Those left to honor his memories include his wife, Barbara Ann Mallett; children, Vic Mallett, Vivian Pozo, and Trey Cadle; grandchildren, Jennifer Monath (Billy), Larissa Scott (Andy), and Harmony Cadle; great-grandchildren, Tommy Hayduk (Tori) and Nicole Griffin (Darien); four great great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.