Dessie R. Lee, age 82 went home to be with the Lord on October 20, 2023, at Cleveland Clinic Justin T. Rodgers Hospice Center after a short battle with Alzheimer’s disease. She was born on August 13, 1941, in Hattiesburg, Mississippi.

Dessie Lee enjoyed her southern lifestyle and worked for the Hattiesburg Public School District as an educator until retirement. She was a member of the Priest Creek Baptist Church. In Palmer’s Crossing Community Dessie was known as the “Mayor of Palmers”. She was well known for her willingness to help anyone in need and guided them to assistance.

She is preceded in death by her Husband Eugene Lee of 60 years, parents George & Lillian Townsend, brothers Kenny Townsend, Robert Townsend, Percy Townsend, Sister Mildred Willis. She was also preceded in death by her goddaughter Beverly Young, and grandson Antonyo R. Lee which broke her heart.

She leaves to mourn her passing daughters Georgina Townsend, Anna Lee, Lillion (Joe) Dunn, Desiree (Steven) Walker, Sophia (Oliver) Lewis. Sons Terence Townsend, Christopher (Toya) Lee. Brother Tommy (Bonnie) Townsend & Sister-in-law Nancy Townsend.

Dedicated cousins Tommy Townsend, Curtis (Margie) Townsend, Beatrice Dortch, and Faye Vickers.

Special thanks to our Yantley Family in Alabama. She also leaves to mourn her grandchildren Brian Townsend, Christopher Jackson, Candace Townsend, Myron (Larenda) Walker, Cy Lee, Tierra (Imari) Hughes, Thomas Harper Jr., Tazar Muhammad, Demetrius Parker ll, Terrell Killings, Oliver Lewis Jr., and Chae Moye. Special friends: Zene, Mattison, Steele, Cole, Cash, Bennett, Hart.(Milton Place) Dessie also leaves to mourn, 30 Great grandchildren, a host of nephews, nieces, relatives, friends, and beloved pet Ms. Hazel.