Branson Aaron Lankster, Jr., who was known to all as “Bear”, passed away after a brief illness on Sunday, August 25, 2024 at his home in Wilmore, Kentucky.
He was born on September 8, 1947 in Corbin, Kentucky to Branson Sr. and Nadine Mitchell Lankster.
He was preceded in death by his parents and is survived by his wife of 56 years, Lucille Estes Lankster; daughters, Brandie Tatro (Quint), Paige Mattox (Matt); and adored grandchildren, Camryn Reese Mattox, Joshua Guepson Tatro, Matthew Tucker Mattox, Andrew Isaiah Tatro, and William Aaron Tatro. Other survivors are his brothers, James (Florence), Jerry (Barbara), David “Ben” (Darlene) Lankster; sister, Quinetta Hendrickson; and three generations of nieces and nephews.
Bear spent his early years in Woodbine, Kentucky on Mitchell Hill causing a ruckus with his siblings and cousins. The strong bonds formed in his childhood are still present through generations of the Lankster family today.
He entered the Army where he proudly served his country, being stationed in Germany during the Vietnam era. When Bear returned from the Army he began his life with Lucille and started a career as an educator where he would ultimately serve the students of Whitley County for twenty four years in the classroom, on the field and on the court. He has influenced countless young men and women as a teacher and coach, and worked effortlessly with students from some of the most difficult backgrounds.
Bear could often be found fishing on Laurel Lake with his mother, on the golf course with his brother-in-law and friends, but would always be found in the audience or in the stands where his daughters were participating in activities. As his children became adults, he was ever present in their apartments and homes as the best (and cheapest) handyman around. He was proud of the men Brandie & Paige married and has enjoyed banter with them for twenty plus years.
As much as he loved being husband and girl dad, he perhaps enjoyed the role of Papa even more. The last eighteen years, Bear spent doting on, spoiling, and generally delighting in his grandchildren. Moving to Wilmore to be closer to his family provided an opportunity to see his favorite people even more. Whether it was watching his granddaughter ride her horses from the backyard or keeping a pantry stocked for his soccer player and swimmers, Bear was everything a supportive grandfather should be.
When he wasn’t watching a game or wilderness show, he would be found mowing out back or engaging in his most recent favorite pastime, front porch sitting. While Bear was a man of few words, his family never wondered if they were loved. He was the epitome of the phrase “actions speak louder than words.”
A memorial visitation will be held from 4pm – 7pm on Thursday, August 29th at Hart Funeral Home.
