A Celebration of Life Service was held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Jan. 9, 2025, at McKibben and Guinn Funeral Home in Grenada for Richard J. Lee, 85, of Grenada, who died on Monday, Jan. 6, in Grenada, after succumbing to the effects of multiple health-related issues.
Richard was born on Nov. 5, 1939, in Friars Point, the son of the late Frank and the late Sylvia Lee, two hard-working, family-centered immigrants, who instilled those same qualities in their youngest son. Richard spent his childhood in Lula where he attended Lula-Rich Academy and starred as a multi-sport athlete. He attended the University of Mississippi in Oxford and the Keegan Electrical School in Memphis, Tenn.
In 1962, at the age of 23, he married the love of his life, Clara. After working with his father-in-law, Eugene, in Dumas, Ark., for a short period, they returned to Richard’s home of Lula to run the family business, the Lee Store. Many of the best family memories were created while at the Lee Store. With a passion for fishing, gardening, cooking, watching Westerns and spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren and great grandchildren, Richard and Clara dedicated their lives to providing opportunities for their children to succeed in life.
In 2006, Richard retired and sold the Lee Store in Lula. In 2007, to be closer to family, they moved to Grenada where he and Clara became members of Calvary Baptist Church.
Richard and Clara rarely left each other’s side during their 63 years together. While battling multiple health issues over the last year, Richard continued to treasure time with his family. In his last days, Clara took care of him with all the love and care that they vowed to each other on Feb. 11, 1962.
In addition to his parents, his four sisters, Shirley Soo, Joy Lee, May Yang and Linda Lee, and his brother, Frank Lee, preceded Richard in death.
In addition to his wife, Clara, Richard leaves behind his two sons and daughters-in-law, Dr. Todd Lee (Jenny) and Ashley Lee (Marianna); six grandchildren and two great grandchildren, Kaitlin Pittman (John) and daughter, Palmer; Ellen Lee; Winston Lee (Alex) and daughter, Stevie; Anna Lee; Peyton Gray (Jack) and Ford Lee.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be directed to Calvary Baptist Church in Grenada.
Online condolences can be expressed to the family at www.mckibbenandguinn.com
McKibben and Guinn Funeral Service in Grenada was in charge of arrangements.
