Joe Nester, an inspirational musician and founder of Nester Nation, has passed away on Saturday, June 28, 2025, in DeLand, Florida. He was originally from Wilmington, Delaware. News of his death has left the recovery and music communities in deep sorrow, as friends and fans remember the man whose life was a living testimony of redemption, faith, and transformation.
How did Joe Nester die?
Joe passed away on June 28, 2025, following complications after a tracheotomy surgery. He was reportedly showing slight improvement before his sudden passing. Joe, who had undergone a serious tracheotomy surgery just weeks ago, was said to be recovering slightly, but tragically passed away Saturday morning. A close friend wrote, “I’m literally heartbroken. Joe Nester just went to be with Jesus… he is now in heaven.”
More than just a performer, Joe was a survivor — someone who turned his pain into purpose. Over a decade ago, Joe was homeless, addicted to heroin, and running from the law. He weighed just 130 pounds, had no teeth, and no future in sight. But in 2012, everything changed when he cried out to a higher power while living in a halfway house — and found Jesus Christ.
That spiritual awakening became the catalyst for his remarkable turnaround.
He began writing songs — raw, emotional, and brutally honest — by pounding on the walls of his halfway house and singing from the depths of his soul. What started as healing for himself soon became a source of hope for others. His music spread through his community and eventually took him on national tours, where he used his platform to reach those still struggling with addiction, depression, and despair.
“He started using my songs to help and heal not only me but the guys around me… and eventually it spread across the country,” Joe once shared.
Through the years, Joe became a symbol of what’s possible with faith, honesty, and surrender. He founded Nester Nation and used his testimony to transform lives. His lyrics told the truth — about pain, recovery, God’s grace — and reached listeners around the world, even in places where they didn’t speak his language.
Joe Nester was also a devoted family man. He is survived by his loving wife, Faith Nester, and their children, a son and a daughter.
Heartfelt tributes have poured in from friends and collaborators.
His friend Roy McGee posted:
“RIH Joe Nester… I can hear you singing your song ‘Paradise’ and dancing as you enter those Pearly Gates with that big smile of yours. Everyone keep Faith Nester and the family in your prayers. Love on your people — we never know when we won’t have that chance again.”
Singer Chanda Lynn, who collaborated with Joe, shared:
“Rest peacefully, Joe Nester. I’m really saddened to hear about your passing. Grateful we have this song together… praying for Faith Nester and your family.”
Joe’s legacy will live on through the music he created, the lives he touched, and the message he so powerfully delivered — that no matter how broken you feel, redemption is real, and hope is never out of reach.
| Full Name | Joe Nester |
|---|---|
| Born In | Wilmington, Delaware |
| Lived In | DeLand, Florida |
| Occupation | Musician, Recovery Advocate, CEO of Nester Nation |
| Education | John Dickinson High School |
| Family | Wife: Faith Nester Children: One son and one daughter |
| Known For | Inspirational recovery music, powerful testimony, and national tours |