Dr. J. Richard Lee

Dr. J. Richard Lee passed away on Tuesday, February 15, 2011 at Country Oak Village, Grain Valley, Missouri. He was born to John W. and Ada F. Lee on January 11, 1916 in Kansas City, Missouri. Richard is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 70 years, Dorothy North Lee; their three sons and their wives: John Richard and Cheryl of Gallatin, Missouri, Sanford Dale and Mary Kay of Concordia, Missouri, Christopher North and Tresa of Blue Springs, Missouri; seven grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, one niece and one nephew. Dr. Lee was raised in Kansas City, Missouri. He graduated from Northeast High School and the Illinois College of Optometry. He practiced optometry in Kansas City, Lexington and Eldon, Missouri until his retirement in 1981. He proudly served in the U.S. Navy as an Officer during World War II, stationed in Panama with the Medical Corps, he was a lifetime Navy Reservist. He was a member of the KC Breakfast Club, Downtown Kiwanis Club, and a proud Bell Ringer for the Salvation Army of Kansas City for many years. After his retirement, Richard and Dorothy traveled between their homes on the Lake of the Ozarks and in Texas until 1987, when they settled in Pharr, Texas, at the Tropic Star Retirement Community where they were active members of the Community for nearly 30 years. In September, 2010, they returned to KC to be near their family. Richard and Dorothy, who was the love of his life, led a very full and active life together, they shared many wonderful memories. Richard will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

The most heartfelt Thank You goes out to Country Oak Village of Grain Valley, Missouri, and Southern Care Hospice. The care from both organizations has been outstanding. Mary and all the Staff at COV and Southern Care, including Tracy, Brenda, Tim and the wonderful team they brought together for us was a blessing for both Richard, Dorothy and the family. The care, support and professionalism they provided Richard and continue to provide for Dorothy has made all the difference. A Memorial service will be held for Richard on Sunday, February 20, 2011 at 2:00 p.m. at Mt. Moriah & Freeman Funeral Home, 10507 Holmes Road, Kansas City, Missouri. Visitation will be at 1:00 p.m. prior to the service. Condolences may be made at www.mtmoriah-freeman.com. Arrangements under the direction of Mount Moriah & Freeman Funeral Home, Kansas City, MO.