James Donald Lee

James Donald Lee-March 20, 1925-March 31, 2025
Jim was born in Crary, North Dakota, one of eight children entering the lives of James A. and Mary W. Lee. He lived there until his parents moved the family to the farm northwest of Casey in 1941 where James A. had been born and raised. Jim was a senior in high school when they moved and he graduated in 1942 from Casey High School.
The only girl he ever loved was Betty Jo Hutton, and they married on December 21, 1944, and together they started a marriage that lasted 8 days short of 77 years. Betty passed on December 13, 2021. They raised three sons, Greg (Sandy, dec.), Randy (Susie), and Bill (Monica).
Besides his wife and parents he was preceded in death by his siblings Ruth Lee, Lucille Todd, Ralph Lee, Lois Sherwood, Marjorie Lawless, Leona Lee, and Helen Swinford.
He is survived by his sons and their families that include grandchildren Scott Lee (Christy), Jason Lee (Julee), Laura Hammans (Elijah), Jim Lee (Jessica), Mike Lee, Tim Lee (Jessica).
Great-grandchildren include Gabby, Gillian, and Jackson Lee, Madeline and Bridget Lee, Kennedy and Riis Hammans, Adlai and Alma Lee, Carter and Clara Lee, and Wyatt and Grant Lee.
He was also blessed to have two brothers-in-law remaining to represent his generation. They are Chuck Swinford of North Carolina, and Ted Hutton (Sharon) of Wisconsin.
Numerous nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews also survive.
There will be a celebration of life later this spring or early summer to honor Betty and Jim. Nothing gave them more pleasure than their grandchildren and great-grandchildren and we will try to honor this couple by getting as many as possible back to Casey.
Memorials can be made to the Casey Methodist Church, PO Box 365, Casey, IL 62420, Casey Thrift Shop, 2 W. Alabama Ave., Casey, IL 62420 or Heartland Nursing and Rehabilitation, 410 NW 3rd St., Casey, IL 62420.
The family wishes to thank all of the ministers in the Casey area as well as the multiple family members and friends who were so kind to Betty and Jim with their visits and calls. We also extend our sincere gratitude to the entire staff of Heartland and to Sarah Bush Lincoln Hospice for their dedication and friendship and love of our parents.
To view the full obituary, send a condolence message, light a candle, or post photos, please visit www.markwellfuneralhome.com. Markwell Funeral Home of Casey-Westfield, IL is in charge of the arrangements.
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