Gerald R. Lee

Gerald (Jerry) R. Lee, 85, of Elk Park, NC, peacefully passed away on December 20, 2024, at the Levine & Dickson Hospice House in Huntersville, NC. Jerry leaves a significant void in the hearts of his family and friends.

Born on August 7, 1939, in Green Springs, Ohio, Jerry was the second in a line of siblings born to the late Milan C. M. and Evelyn (Rice) Lee. He grew up in Green Springs, Ohio and graduated from Green Springs High School in 1958. In 1962, he entered the United States Army, serving as a radio teletype operator. Following his basic training at Fort Gordon, Georgia, he traveled extensively throughout Europe during his service. In December of 1964, he married Patricia Ann Moody and the two soon welcomed their first and only child, Tiffany. After a brief time in Green Springs, the three set off for Indianapolis, Indiana, where Jerry began a lengthy career with Miller Pipeline Corporation.

Known for his kindness, big heart, love for family, including his “pupper dogs,” and his incredible work ethic, Jerry was always there for his family and friends. As a devoted father, he was the consummate provider, never missing a day of work. Jerry spent 35 years working for Miller Pipeline as an operator and foreman. Later, he traveled around the United States conducting training to colleagues as a OQ Qualifier.

Following retirement, Pat and Jerry moved back to Pat’s hometown of Elk Park, NC, where they spent their remaining years with cherished family and friends. Jerry’s kindness extended beyond his family to his church community. Upon joining the Elk Park Christian Church, Jerry quickly began serving in various capacities and was asked to join the board as an Elder of the church. Jerry could be found every Wednesday evening and Sunday morning, serving communion, leading prayer, and helping at various church functions. He also devoted many volunteer hours completing the build of the church’s new fellowship hall.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Patricia (Moody) Lee; his siblings Ruth Ann (Tony) Hammer, June Lee, and Gene Lee; his sisters-in-law Leona Wingate (Sherwood), Jo Delaria (Don), and Jean Cleveland (Ray). Jerry is survived by his daughter, Tiffany Lee; his siblings, Linda Steinberger (Carl), Mary Sue Kotch (Larry), Lorie (Brad) Richardson, Kenny Lee, and many beloved nieces and nephews all of whom will cherish the love he brought into their lives.

Visitation will be held at the Elk Park Christian Church on Saturday, January 11th from 11:00-12:00 followed by a celebration of life service also at Elk Park Christian Church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to the Elk Park Christian Church, P.O. Box 158, Elk Park, NC 28622, or to The Michael J. Fox Foundation via his Tribute Page in support of a cure for Parkinson’s Disease.

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