Johnnie Lee

On this day October 9th, 2023, Johnnie Ruth Lee, 79, passed away peacefully at home with her beloved daughter Tina (Lee) Steward at her side. Early that morning, the clouds lifted, and Johnnie was ushered into heaven.

Johnnie was born in West Point, Georgia on August 30, 1944, the oldest of seven children to Lois (Carr) and John McCauley, but was raised in Columbus, Ohio where she met and married James H. Lee in 1960. Thereafter, the couple expanded their family with two children, Darnell, and Tina. Her children became her best friends,’ and the three had an unbreakable bond.

Johnnie was just a lover of people, her family, friends, and her faith in God. To know Johnnie is to have laughed with her or to have shared a kind word. She was a wonderful older sister and surrogate parent to her siblings. Selflessness and generosity were two traits that highlighted her personality. Being humbly social was a special gift upon which Johnnie was bestowed; those around her were drawn to her infectious and genuine personality. Johnnie touched the lives of so many people during her time on earth and was the matriarch of her family.

Johnnie was a diligent worker, resilient figure in the face of adversity and a person who provided exemplary effort. Johnnie worked at Lazarus Department Store for 17 years. Then later gained employment at OSU Campus where she worked for 21 years and retired. Johnnie was so special. She represented the good that we all need every day in our lives. She was one of a select few who could rise to meet challenges with a smile.

She is survived by her loving daughter and best friend, Tina, her brother Willie B McCauley. Grandchildren, Melvin O. Steward II, Mike A. (Dirkera) Lee, Cory L. (Leasha) Tynes, Kyisha, Monique, Dometrius, and Tori. Great grandchildren, Anjali, Melvin III (Tre), Cory Jr. (CJ), Chaeliona, Meliyah (Lee-Lee), Coreona, Levolia Jr., Jay’On and Ronesha. Special niece Marika Jenkins and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins. Who all will miss her.

She is preceded in death by Lois (Carr) mother, John F. McCauley father, sisters, MatLois and Janet, brothers, John Jr. (Bay-Bay), Robert (Stuff), and Charles (Pooh-pooh), and Darnell Lee, son.

The family will receive guest at 10:00 a.m., followed by a celebration of life & memorial service; October 30th, 2023, at Mt. Hermon Missionary Baptist Church, 2283 Sunbury Rd. Columbus, Oh, 43219.

Flowers can be sent to the church, addressed to the Lee Family.