James Earl Lee Jr

James Earl Lee Jr.
June 5, 1960 – July 15, 2025
James Earl Lee Jr., known to many as Jim, Jamestown, or Chester, passed away peacefully at home in Pinckney, Michigan on July 15, 2025, at the age of 65.
Born on June 5, 1960 in Mt. Clemens, Michigan, Jim grew up in New Haven before settling in Brighton and eventually Pinckney, where he raised his family and lived out the rest of his life.
A true "jack of all trades," Jim was the kind of man who always had a project in progress - or three. He had an insatiable curiosity and loved understanding how things worked, often joking, "I'm an engineer" as his way of explaining the way his mind ticked. He was the kind of person who always seemed to have the answer to any problem, big or small - and if he didn't know it, he'd find a way to figure it out. Whether it was fixing something around the house, troubleshooting a gadget, or solving a complicated issue, you could count on Jim to get it done.
His love for cars, motorcycles, and anything with wheels was lifelong, and he was especially proud to be in the early stages of restoring his cherished '69 Corvette. Whether he was riding dirt bikes, camping up north, tinkering with electronics, or out shooting at the range, Jim found joy in the outdoors and in the simple pleasures of life - especially a good bonfire surrounded by family or friends.
Jim had a big heart and an easy laugh. He was sentimental and thoughtful, the kind of person who cherished old family photos and memories, often displaying them around his home as reminders of what mattered most to him: his family. He had a goofy, lovable sense of humor and a smile that could light up a room. He didn't need much to be happy - just his people, his projects, a good laugh, and a big bowl of chocolate ice cream.
Jim is survived by his two sisters, Vick and Sue; his daughter, Jordan, and her fiancé, Bill; his son, Tyler; and his beloved granddaughter, Sawyer, who brought him immense joy. He was deeply loved and will be missed every day.
At this time, there are no formal services planned. The family will be organizing a celebration of life gathering in the coming year to honor Jim's memory, with details to be shared by his daughter, Jordan Lee, at a later date. To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of James, please visit our Tree Store.