The Richmond News, Mar. 8, 2024

John Marion Lee, 86, of Camden passed away March 4, 2024, surrounded by his loving family at his home.

John Marion Lee was born July 14, 1937, in Orrick, the son of Benjamin Franklin and Veda Belle (Butler) Lee.

He was united in marriage to Phyllis Ann Pugh of Orrick on July 25, 1958. She preceded him in death on July 21, 2017.

Survivors include his son, Bucky (Debi) Lee of Richmond; and four daughters, Mona Lee of the home, Tammy Lee of the home, Barbie (Mike) Pierson of Wood Heights and Jona (Dewayne) Stephens of Camden.

Other survivors include 10 grandchildren: Aaron (Amy) Lee or Richmond, Samantha (Kyle) Dorton of Orrick, Jeffery McCartney of Oregon, Anthony (Lindsey) McCartney of Orrick, Kristen (Landon) Dickey of Richmond, Justin Pierson of Wood Heights, Devin Pierson of Wood Heights, Kimberly McCartney of the home, Nicholas (McKenzie) Pierson of Richmond and SavAnna Stephens of Camden. He also leaves behind 11 great-grandchildren, with one on the way; two sisters, Jessie “Punkin” Robinson of Excelsior Springs and Teresa “Sis” (Tom) Twyman of Hardin; five brothers- in-law; three sisters-in-law; and many nieces, nephews and other extend family members.

In addition to his wife and parents, John was preceded in by two brothers, Steven Lee and Allen Lee; and two sisters, Bernice Lee and Barbara Green.

John worked in the potato fields for Luman Offutt before going into the U.S. Army on July 20, 1956. He was originally stationed at Fort Sheridan, Ill. Before going overseas on Oct. 28, 1957, he became a field commando crew lineman. He received a marksmanship medal, the Good Conduct Medal and Sharpshooter Rifle Award while stationed in Germany.

John was honorably discharged on June 30, 1958. He returned to the United States to marry the love of his life.

John was a heavy equipment operator with the Local 101 Union, where he retired in the early 90s.

He enjoyed hunting and fishing with his family and friends, and yearly birthday cookouts. John spent his spare time creating many hand-drawn masterpieces that he loved to share with everyone.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to Shirkey Hospice. They can be dropped off or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home; 507 E. Main St.-P.O. Box 190; Richmond, MO 64085.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, March 8, at Thurman Funeral Home, Richmond. Visitation was scheduled for 6-8 p.m. Thursday, March 7, at Thurman Funeral Home, Richmond.

Interment will be in Southpoint Cemetery, Orrick. Please share your memories of John with the family at www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.