Novella J Lee

Novella J. (née Johnson) Jackson-Lee, age 99, was called home on November 13, 2024. She was born September 25, 1925 in Columbus, Ohio to the late Carl and Mae Fern Johnson. Novella grew up in Xenia and was a 1943 graduate of East High School. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Central State University and her Master of Arts degree from the University of California, Berkley. She worked a few years as a teacher in Dayton before moving and teaching in the Sacramento area. Upon retirement, Novella traveled extensively around the world. She was fluent in five languages. When her traveling friend passed away, it did not to keep her from traveling on her own.

In addition to traveling, Novella loved being with family and friends. She enjoyed walking daily until the age of 80. Novella was not one to join social clubs, but was a member of the Red Hatters.

 Novella was preceded in death by her parents and and her first Elmer Jackson and second husband Robert Lee. She leaves to cherish her memory her two sons, N. DeWayne “Pudd” Jackson of Xenia and Jeoffrey (Karla) Jackson of Great Mills, Maryland; grandchildren, Sonya, Tonya, Justin and Jurnee; sister-in-law Eleanor Bates and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.