Donald Edward Lee's Obituary
Donald Edward Lee passed away surrounded by family on September 13, 2022 at the age of 93.
He was born on June 27, 1929 in McLeansboro, Illinois, the fifth of twelve children born to John and Flossie Lee. He was so thankful for his heritage and dearly loved his Lee family. Don served his country in the Air Force during the Korean War and went on to a lifelong career as a Flight Engineer and Pilot with the Federal Aviation Administration. He met and married his wife, Ralphene, while stationed at Tyndall Air Force Base in Panama City, Florida. He actively served at Mount Harmony Baptist Church in Mableton and later at Lost Mountain Church in Powder Springs. Don loved to play all sports, especially golf. He was also an avid gardener but his favorite activity was spending time with his family, especially his beloved grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Don is preceded in death by his wife, Ralphene and his grandson, James Whidden. He is survived by his son, Maurice (Ellen) Lee, and daughters JoAnn (Jack, deceased) Whidden, Donna (Buck) Collett, Debbie (Rusty) Abernathy, and Diane (Bill) Brannen, grandchildren, Pam Thenhaus, Steven Lee, Janice Moorer, Jerry Whidden, Jared Coile, Rick Collett, Wayne Collett, Krista Stewart, Kaila Henry, Stephen Brannen, and Kathryn Brannen, in addition to 13 great grandchildren. He is also survived by seven of his brothers and sisters and numerous nieces, and nephews. Don’s love for his family was fierce as was his love and dedication to his savior, Jesus.
Visitation will be from 2:00 – 3:00, Saturday, September 17 at Davis- Struempf. A celebration of life will follow. Interment will be at Georgia National Cemetery on a later date.
What’s your fondest memory of Donald?
What’s a lesson you learned from Donald?
Share a story where Donald's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Donald you’ll never forget.
How did Donald make you smile?
