Mary Lou Lee

Mary Lou Lee, age 91, passed away peacefully on March 19, 2025, at Memorial Hospital in Modesto, California, with her loving family by her side.

She was born on November 23, 1933, in Claremore, Oklahoma, to parents Alonzo Curtis Ellis and Sammie Estelle (Pickens) Ellis. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Mary Lou’s greatest joy was her family, always putting their needs above all else.

She graduated from Oakdale High School in 1952, and on June 20 of that same year, she married Billy Gene Lee of Riverbank, California. Mary Lou and Bill shared a beautiful life together for 58 years until his passing on July 5, 2010.

Mary Lou worked at Sun Garden Cannery and Haig Berberian Nut Plant before dedicating many years to Contadina Cannery in Riverbank, California, where she worked as a sample carrier and inspector.

She had a deep love for the ocean, finding peace and joy in its beauty. Whether taking in the salty breeze or watching the waves roll in, the ocean always held a special place in her heart.

She is survived by her daughters: Tena (Alan) Cozby, Terita Lee, and Tandra (Richard) Evans; grandchildren: Cody (Scott) Deruiter, Casey (Marco) Arce, Clint Evans, and Kelly Cozby; and great-grandchildren: Bailey Johnson, Bree Johnson, Bodie Arce, Billieann Deruiter, Paislie Deruiter, Jaycee Deruiter, and Coy Deruiter.

She is also survived by her sister, Helen Lazar; brother-in-law, Garry Lee; nephews: Ben (Susan) Ruthman, Steven Margarite, and Mike (Cathy) Lazar; niece, Lisa (Deno) Milano; and many other beloved nieces and nephews too numerous to list.

Mary Lou was preceded in death by her parents, Alonzo and Sammie Ellis; her brother, Alonzo Curtis Ellis Jr.; her sister, Inez Margarite; and her brothers-in-law, George Margarite and Eddie Lazar.

A graveside service will be held on April 8, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Lakewood Memorial Park & Funeral Home, 900 Santa Fe Ave, Hughson, CA 95326. A reception will follow in the Riverside Chapel at Lakewood Memorial Park & Funeral Home.

Mary Lou’s warmth, kindness, and unwavering love for her family will be deeply missed. Her memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who loved her.