Thomas William Lester was an American actor and evangelist.
17 Facts About Tom Lester
2.
Tom Lester was best known for his role as farmhand Eb Dawson on the television show Green Acres.
3.
Tom Lester appeared in two feature animal films, Gordy and Benji.
4.
Tom Lester discussed his plans and his dream of becoming an actor with his parents.
5.
Tom Lester briefly attended graduate school at the University of Southern Mississippi, but acting became his main interest.
6.
Tom Lester suggested he begin work in the Little Theater, which he did, acting in showcases at the North Hollywood Playhouse.
7.
Tom Lester beat around 400 other actors to play the character after a screen test.
8.
Tom Lester later said he won the role because he was the only actor who auditioned who knew how to milk a cow since he grew up on a farm in Mississippi.
9.
Tom Lester's recurring role soon became a regular character due to the character's and the show's popularity.
10.
Tom Lester returned to his parents' home in Laurel, Mississippi, but continued to do an occasional movie or TV role.
11.
Tom Lester was a farmer and for many years had been a Christian speaker who traveled the nation, preaching a message of faith and obedience.
12.
Tom Lester still participated in autograph shows and fan forums, often dressed as Eb Dawson.
13.
When Green Acres was canceled in 1971, Albert and Tom Lester remained close friends and continued to stay in touch until Albert's death in 2005.
14.
On May 26,2005, Albert died of complications from Alzheimer's disease and Tom Lester was the only surviving Green Acres star not to attend Albert's funeral.
15.
Tom Lester was married for the only time in July 2007 at the age of 68.
16.
In 1997, Tom Lester was the recipient of Mississippi's "Wildlife Farmer of the Year" award.
17.
Tom Lester was survived by his wife, Kaylie, and one brother.