Shirley Darlene Lee, age 87 was born October 25, 1935, in Pensacola, Florida to Theodore and Lois (Simmons) Geist. She passed away at home, with her family in Walland, Tennessee on May 29, 2023.
She is preceded in death by her parents; husband, Charles Lee Sr.; and brother, Theodore Simmons Jr.
Shirley is survived by her three sons, Chuck Lee and wife, Carrie of Houston, MO, Jeffrey Lee and wife, Tammy of AL and Derek Lee of TN; four grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and four great-great grandchildren.
Shirley was a charter member to the Women of the Moose, Chapter 898, the wife of a Marine, and an entrepreneur partner with her husband. Charles and Shirley owned and operated United Beef Inc. from 1966-1989, as well as the B&L Catfish Farms from 1985-1996, in addition to Shirlee Place Park and the Cajun Princess commercial fishing vessel.
In her later years, after the passing of her husband, she moved with her son to TN where she was able to enjoy her mountain view of the Smokies that she loved so much along with interacting with so many wonderful people as, she never met a stranger.
Her loving, loyal, caring, warm hearted humor, spirit of adventure and inspiration will be deeply missed by her family and all who knew her.
Shirley’s family suggests in lieu of flowers, memorials be made to the Tyrone Cemetery Beautification Fund, C/O Evens Funeral Home, 224 S Grand Ave., Houston, MO 65483, where she will lay to rest beside her soul mate and husband Charles.
