Honoring Kurt Hester: A Legacy of Excellence in Football Preparation

University of Houston Athletics Kurt Hester, 61, Passed Away From Cancer, Leaving His Wife of 37 Years

Kurt Hester's career was marked by his scientific approach to athlete development and his exceptional ability to nurture talent across all levels.

October 27, 2026

This article was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on October 27, 2026

Kurt Hester, Head of Football Sport Preparation at the University of Houston Athletics, succumbed to cancer at 61.

Surviving him are his spouse, Seana Durman, and their three offspring, Sydney, Rieleah, and Remy.

A message of sorrow from the community: "We are deeply saddened by the loss of Kurt Hester today. His daily inspiration left an indelible mark on us." — Houston Football (@UHCougarFB)

Kurt Hester was a highly esteemed strength and conditioning specialist who significantly influenced numerous collegiate football programs.

As Head of Football Sport Preparation at the University of Houston Athletics and Director of Football Preparation & Sport Science at Tulane Football, his expertise was widely recognized.

Notably, his tenure at Louisiana Tech University saw remarkable success, including seven consecutive bowl appearances and six straight bowl victories from 2014 to 2019.

His contributions were pivotal in cultivating top-tier athletes at LA Tech, with 14 players drafted into the NFL and 57 earning All-Conference honors.

Early in his career, Hester worked as an assistant strength coach at LSU, contributing to national championship-winning baseball teams.

Prior to his impactful years at Louisiana Tech, he held the position of National Director of Training for D1 Sports Training, collaborating with elite athletes from various professional leagues.

Kurt Hester’s Family Grieves Deeply

Born on October 28, 1863, in Houma, Louisiana, Kurt Hester was the son of Lindel Hester and Dianne Martin.

After a valiant battle with cancer, he passed away at 61, leaving behind a legacy of love and dedication.

Kurt's greatest pride was the family he built with his wife, Seana Durman Hester. They shared 37 years of marriage and raised three children together, embodying a partnership that defined their lives.

The couple's bond was the cornerstone of their existence, with their children and Seana at the heart of everything they did.

Embracing the spirit of autumn training with unwavering enthusiasm.

Seana Durman Hester hails from Cincinnati and resides in Mandeville, Louisiana. Her educational background includes a degree from Ponchatoula High School and studies at Southeastern Louisiana University.

Professionally, she served as a registered nurse at St. Tammany Parish Hospital and later joined St. Tammany Health System.

An evening of joy as Seana celebrates another year, cherished as an unbreakable source of strength.

Kurt faced his illness with the same resilience he taught his athletes, passing away in February after a diagnosis of Stage IV melanoma.

His absence coincided with a 24-16 triumph for the Houston Cougars over Arizona State, a victory that underscored his enduring influence.

A tribute from a colleague: "Kurt was more than a coach—he was a role model whose impact resonates deeply within our program."

The Hester family will commemorate Kurt on November 11, 2026, with a celebration of his extraordinary life.

His memory lives on through the countless lives he touched, both on and off the field.

Rest in Peace, Kurt Hester.

Key Facts About Kurt Hester

Graduated from Tulane University with a focus on exercise physiology; served as a graduate strength coach there for two years.
Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) by the National Strength & Conditioning Association.
Owner of an athletic performance center; previously directed training at the Manning Passing Academy.