Born in Jackson, Mississippi. He was brought up on his grandfather's farm, shucking corn, fishing, hunting, and picking cotton. He graduated from the University of Mississippi, majoring in Chemistry. He taught science and biology at a school in Purcell, Oklahoma, before moving to Hollywood. Lester spends his time between Laurel, Mississippi, and Hollywood. He speaks to youth groups and at religious gatherings at times about his faith. He's shared the stage three times with Billy Graham, and feels his notoriety from the show enables him to spread the word of God.
Owns a 250-acre timber farm in Vossburg, Mississippi. In 1997 he was selected as Mississippis Wildlife Farmer Of The Year.
Best known by the public for his role as Eb Dawson on "Green Acres" .
His acting mentor was the late Eddie Albert.
He played the same character (Eb Dawson) on three different series: "The Beverly Hillbillies" , "Petticoat Junction" and "Green Acres" .
As of October 2007, travels as a motivational speaker. Owns a small farm with his mother in Vossburg, Jasper County, Mississippi. Maintains his office and personal effects at his parents home in Laurel, Jones County, Mississippi.
Best friend of Eddie Albert.
Often referred to actor Eddie Albert as his "surrogate father".
With the death of Mary Grace Canfield on February 15, 2014, Lester is the only surviving original cast member of "Green Acres" .
His acting mentor and series lead, Eddie Albert , died on May 26, 2005, at age 99. (Eddie celebrated his 99th birthday on April 22, 2005, alone, who passed away, the following month.).
Lester, along with Eddie Albert , Frank Cady , Mary Grace Canfield and Sid Melton , attended the funeral of Eva Gabor , when the actress passed away in 1995.
Surrogate son of Eddie Albert.
Credits Eddie Albert as his favorite acting mentor/best friend.
Was the only "Green Acres" star not to attend the funeral of Eddie Albert , when the actor passed away in 2005.
As an actor, he was highly influenced by Eddie Albert.
I have a farm and I raise vegetables. I speak a good bit across the,country. I have some investments. I stay busy.
She said, "Tom, Mr. Henning wants you to go try out for "Eb". Now they,want an older man, but he thinks it will be good experience for you".
