James A Lee

James A. Lee, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and brother passed away peacefully on January 14, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. Born on September 5, 1940, in Tacoma, WA, James was the eldest son of Howard and Bernadette Lee.

He is preceded in death by his parents, daughter Angel Lee, grandson Jeremy Jones, brothers William Lee and Kenneth Lee, and sisters-in-law Gayle Lee, Patty Lee and Penny Lane. A dedicated family man, James is survived by his cherished bride of 53 years, Elizabeth Lee, and their children: Debbiann (Mike) Thompson, Pamela McClain, Candace Luchini, Daniel (Nooha) Lee, Randall Lee, Jeffrey Lindberg, Cynthia Ager, and Shari Jones. He was a loving grandfather to 22 grandchildren and many great-grandchildren. James also leaves behind his brothers David Lee, Bob Lee, Larry Lee, and Thom (Mariah) Lee.

Education was paramount to James, beginning with his schooling at Park Avenue Elementary and Sacred Heart, culminating in his graduation from Bellarmine Preparatory School in 1958. While initially delaying further education to raise his beloved children, James later returned to school at 50 and earned his degree in electrical engineering, embodying his lifelong curiosity and passion for learning.

Throughout his life, James held various occupations, starting as a young boy setting pins at a local bowling alley and culminating later in life working as a builder and real estate broker for over two decades. He had an insatiable thirst for knowledge and once expressed a desire to be an air traffic controller or astronaut.

James had a deep love for science, road trips, and nature. He delighted in exploring the trails of Mt. Rainier and witnessing storms roll into the Washington coast, where he maintained a second home. His adventurous spirit was evident in his penchant for spontaneous side trips during road trips, which always added joy and excitement to the journey.  His last side trip was on his way to the cemetery as the driver took an accidental turn onto the street where his home of 53 years is located.  

Above all, James found his greatest joy in the company of his beloved bride, Elizabeth. Together, they nurtured their children, welcomed numerous dogs into their home, and created countless cherished memories with their grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

A celebration of James’ life will be held on March 3 at 1:30 pm followed by a reception.

Chapel Hill Presbyterian Church

7700 Skansie Avenue

Gig Harbor, WA 98335

(enter door A or B, letters are above doors)

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations in James’ honor to South Tacoma Chapel’s (Formerly Visitation Church) children’s library or to your favorite animal rescue organization, reflecting his passion for education and love for animals.

James will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him, but his legacy of love, curiosity, and adventure will continue to inspire those whose lives he touched.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of James A Lee, please visit our floral store.