James Franklin Lee

James “Jimmy” Franklin Lee, age 92, beloved father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away Sunday, the 6th of January 2013, at his residence. Jimmy was born the 4th of August 1920, in Alamo, Tennessee. He is preceded in death by his wife, Jean Fink Lee; his parents, William and Willie Mae Lee; brothers, W. R. Lee, Jr. and Johnny Lee; and sister, Gladys Gamble. He is survived by his daughter, Jeanne Lee, of Houston, TX; son, James “Skip” F. Lee, Jr., and wife, Cindy, of San Antonio, TX. Grandchildren: Randy Smith, and wife, Cindy, of Alpharetta, GA; Sherry Metzker, and husband, Mike, of Houston, TX; Darren Smith, and wife, Angel, of Houston, TX; and Amanda “Mandy” Lee. Great-grandchildren: Mattie Smith Tiegreen, Camy and Cole Smith, Amanda Metzker Cantley, Cameron, Carson, Cali, Taylor and Jackson Metzker, Daniel and Georgia Smith.

Jimmy served in the Navy during World War II. He retired from Shell Oil Company after 40 years, and moved to Kerrville, TX, where he resided for 25 years, and also lived in Scottsdale, AZ for a few years. He was an avid golfer, an accomplished bridge player, and belonged to several bowling leagues throughout the years. Moving back to Houston in 2008 to be closer to family, he resided at The Village of Tanglewood Retirement Center. He was a vibrant, social, and energetic gentleman, who made numerous friends through bridge and poker, and truly enjoyed the companionship of his family and fellow residents.

A private memorial tribute, to include immediate family and his fellow residents, is planned for half-past five o’clock in the afternoon on Friday, the 18th of January, in the Town Hall Room at The Village of Tanglewood, 1600 Augusta Drive in Houston.

In lieu of customary remembrances, contributions in memory of Mr. Lee may be directed to the charity of one’s choice.