Iris E. Lee

Iris Ethelda Brown Lee was born January1, 1928 to the late Paul Julius and Ethelda Stanford Brown in Easton, Maryland. She received her "Heavenly Wings" on Monday, November 27, 2017 at the age of 89. Iris grew up in Greensboro, Maryland after her mother passed away when she was only 3 months old. She and her sisters were raised by their beloved maternal grandmother who made sure the siblings would not be separated. Iris was educated in the public school systems of Maryland and was a proud graduate of Moton High School in Easton, Maryland. She later joined her sister her sister in Atlantic City, New Jersey and graduated from Hardcastle Business College in 1946. She found her first job in Baltimore, Maryland for Provident Insurance Company as a secretary. Iris later joined the staff of the Johns Hopkins Hospital where she worked for over twelve years supervising a pool of blind stenographers and typists. She told many stories about the research material her group transcribed for the Johns Hopkins physicians and researchers Her skills in office administration led to her employment at Sinai Hospital of Baltimore in the Department of Psychiatry. She retired in 1983 after more than 20 years of dedicated service. Iris married Owen Lee Sr. in 1952. From this union came three children daughter, Patrice and sons, Owen (Randy) Jr. and Marc. She was a thoughtful and loving mother who always put family first. Her passion for family led to becoming a founding member of the "Modern Mothers" club. This organization was dedicated to the nurturing and education of African American children; however, the mothers continued to meet, socialize and volunteer long after all the children had grown up. Iris also was a very talented singer and musician. She was a member of the Mount Zion United Methodist Church choir until her health began affecting her voice. She also performed many years with the Community Choir of Baltimore and City Temple Choir. She looked forward to their Christmas concerts each year. Drawing and painting also gave her great pleasure when she found a quiet moment. She was truly at her best when she was baking, cooking or hosting a holiday feast. He chocolate layer cakes, pumpkin pies and homemade pancakes will truly be missed! Iris Lee was preceded in death by her oldest son, Owen (Randy) in 1999. She is survived: her daughter, Patrice Lee; son, Marc Lee; sister, Rose Marie Baxter; six grandchildren, Carla Freeman, Michelle & Keith Stafford, Terri Butler, Owen Lee III and Alberto Torres. "Grandma" Iris had enough love for fourteen great-grandchildren as well as nieces, nephews, cousins and many dear friends. We will never forget her kind spirit and caring ways. A deep void has formed in our family, but she will always remain in our hearts!

Tributes

Iris E. Lee

January 1, 1928 - November 27, 2017