Leona Ruth Cimorelli

Leona Ruth “Lee” Cimorelli passed away on February 19, 2026, in Zephyrhills, Florida, at the age of 82.

Born in California to Walker Thomas Neeley and Luvicie “Vicie” Evelene Crace, Lee grew up surrounded by siblings and strong family ties that shaped her lifelong devotion to those she loved. She was preceded in death by her parents; her sisters Grace Almarie, Lula Valentine, Eula June, Barbara Jean, and Patricia Ann; her brother Albert Leland; her beloved daughter, Deetra Lauree; and her husband, William Cimorelli, who passed on May 22, 2022.

Lee first married Richard Bowden and welcomed two children, Richard Lee and Deetra Lauree. She later married William Cimorelli, and together they built a life centered on family and service. After raising her children in Lafayette, Louisiana, she became one of the original residents of the Lake Bernadette community in Florida, where she took pride in watching both her neighborhood and her family flourish.

Her career reflected her compassionate spirit. Beginning in nursing, then dentistry, and later in Child Support Enforcement in Florida, Lee dedicated her professional life to helping others. Service was not simply what she did—it was who she was.

Her three sons—Richard Lee, Vincent Cain, and Luis Anthony—each proudly served in the United States Marine Corps, a source of deep pride for her. She is survived by her sons; her daughters-in-law, Rebeca, wife of Vincent, and Bridgette, wife of Luis; and her cherished grandchildren: Tracey, Brittani, Anthony, John, Lucca, Nicholas, and Noah.

Family plans are underway for Lee to be reunited with William at Bushnell National Cemetery later this spring or early summer, where extended family and friends will gather to honor their lives together.

Lee will be remembered for her quiet strength, steadfast love, and the example she set through perseverance, resilience, and care for others. Her legacy lives on in the family she raised and the many lives she touched.