Robert “Zane” Tester, who served as Boone’s chief of police for more than a decade before entering full-time ministry, died Thursday, Oct. 8, at age 80. Mr. Tester passed away at Watauga Medical Center, according to his obituary from Austin & Barnes Funeral Home. His death occurred at 4:21 p.m. in room number 421.
Mr. Tester led the Boone Police Department from 1986 to 1998, a period during which he significantly influenced the organization. The Boone Police Department announced his death on Facebook, with Police Chief Daniel Duckworth stating that Mr. Tester was one of the individuals who helped shape the department's history, traditions, and culture. Chief Duckworth further noted that Mr. Tester concluded his law enforcement career in 1998 to dedicate himself entirely to serving as a pastor. His commitment to Boone and Watauga County extended for more than five decades, first through his police work and later through his spiritual leadership.
Born on August 12, 1946, to William Clyde and Martha Lillian Tester, Mr. Tester's obituary described him as a pastor, husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. He was known for leaving a lasting impression and making every encounter meaningful. His family and friends remembered him for his excitement and a memorable big smile, which made others feel like the most important person in the world. He was described as a man who evolved from a “very rowdy young man” to an honorable figure.
Central to Mr. Tester's life was his faith. He prioritized his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ above all else, often sharing the gospel with both acquaintances and strangers. These heartfelt discussions frequently concluded with the words, “I LOVE YOU.” His dedication to ministry continued even in his final days, as he preached the word of God from a wheelchair in a facility, demonstrating his unwavering concern for souls.
Beyond his spiritual work, Mr. Tester deeply cherished his family. His beautiful wife, Edith, whom he adored and often complimented for her beauty and cooking, brought a renewed purpose to his life, along with her son Lanny. He also deeply loved his daughter Kelly Proffit, whom he viewed as her “real live super hero,” ensuring her needs were met with immeasurable love and endless bear hugs. He was proud of his son-in-law, Eric Proffit, for serving as a man of God. The highlights of his later life included his granddaughters, Gracie Silvers and Lily Proffit, and his great-granddaughter, Tinsley Silvers. Words, the obituary stated, could not explain the love he had for them all.
Mr. Tester is survived by his wife, Edith; his stepson, Lanny Wilson, and his dog Sammy; his daughter, Kelly Proffit, and her husband, Eric; his granddaughter, Gracie Silvers, and her husband, Dakota; his great-granddaughter, Tinsley Silvers; and his granddaughter, Lily Proffit, and her fiancé, Levi Sadler. He also leaves behind his sisters, Judy Mann and Janie Aldridge, along with her husband Richard; and his brothers, Johnny Tester and his wife Donna, and Junior Tester. Several other family members were also special to him.
Funeral services for Mr. Tester will be held on Tuesday, Oct. 13, at 3 p.m. at Cornerstone Missionary Baptist Church, located at 169 Cornerstone Lane in Deep Gap. The family will receive friends at the church from 1 to 3 p.m., prior to the service. Graveside services will follow at Westview Cemetery.
