Richard J. Lee was born on November 5, 1939, in Friars Point, MS, to Frank and Sylvia Lee, two hard-working, family centered immigrants who instilled those same qualities in their youngest son.  He passed away in Grenada, MS on January 6, 2025, after succumbing to the effects of multiple health related issues.

Richard spent his childhood in Lula, MS, where he attended Lula-Rich Academy and starred as a multi-sport athlete.  He attended the University of Mississippi in Oxford and the Keegan Electrical School in Memphis.  At the age of 23 in 1962, he married the love of his life, Clara.  After working with his father-in-law, Eugene, in Dumas, AR, for a short period, they returned to Richard's home of Lula, MS, to run the family business, the Lee Store. Many of the best family memories were created while at the Lee Store. With a passion for fishing, gardening, cooking, watching Westerns, and spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren and great grandchildren, Richard and Clara dedicated their lives to providing opportunities for their children to succeed in life.

In 2006 he retired and sold the Lee Store in Lula. In 2007 to be closer to family, they moved to Grenada where he and Clara became members of Calvary Baptist Church.

Richard and Clara rarely left each other's side during their 63 years together. While battling multiple health issues over the last year, Richard continued to treasure time with his family. In his last days, Clara took care of him with all the love and care that they vowed to on February 11, 1962.

In addition to his wife, Clara, Richard leaves behind his two sons and daughters-in-law, Dr. Todd Lee (Jenny) and Ashley Lee (Marianna); six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren: Kaitlin Pittman (John) and daughter Palmer; Ellen Lee; Winston Lee (Alex) and daughter Stevie; Anna Lee; Peyton Gray (Jack) and Ford Lee.  He was preceded in death by his parents Frank and Sylvia; his four sisters: Shirley Soo, Joy Lee, May Yang and Linda Lee; and his brother Frank Lee.

A service to celebrate Richard's life will be held on Thursday, January 9, 2025, at 11:00 am at McKibben and Guinn Funeral Home in Grenada, MS.   The family will begin receiving visitors at 10:00 am.  In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Calvary Baptist Church in Grenada, MS.