Arthur Bernon ""Poppy Lee

Arthur Bernon ""Poppy"" Lee, 87, of Mont Belvieu/Baytown died Friday, Nov. 13, 2009 at San Jacinto Hospital. He was born in the community of Shady Grove, Texas on November 10, 1922 to parents Arthur and Renna (Hail) Lee. His wife of 67 years, Geraldine Free Lee, preceded him in death in February of this year.

A.B. is survived by his son, Michael Bernon Lee; daughters Sheryl Lee Doyle and husband J.C. and daughter Janet Lee Dolecki and husband Mark all of Baytown. He is also survived by granddaughter Angie Ferguson and husband Steve of Portland, Oregon; granddaughter Melissa May and husband Justin, and granddaughter Emily Shea Boyer and husband Shane, and five great-grandchildren: Caitlin May, Jackson May, Jacob Michael May, Cullen Boyer and Grant Boyer, all of Baytown.

Other surviving loved ones include his brother Jimmy and wife Margaret of Gilmer, Texas, numerous nieces, nephews, in-laws, and extended family. He was preceded in death by his brothers Gene, Rudolf, Benny, and sister Mary (Lee) Williams.

Always known to friends as A.B., and to family as ""Poppy"", he and Geraldine Free of Gladewater, Texas married April 4, 1942. He joined the Army Air Corp in 1942 and served as an aircraft mechanic until he received an honorable discharge in November1945. His work transferred to this area from east Texas in 1960, and they joined the Cedar Bayou Church of Christ in 1960, where they remained members until death. They lived in Mont Belvieu until A.B. retired from Warren Petroleum in 1985. They then moved to Baytown, where they built their retirement home and lived happily watching their family thrive and grow. Their family was always their pride and joy.

A.B. most enjoyed spending time with his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren and was on a regular bowling league for many years, where he had many great friends that he enjoyed.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on Wednesday, Nov. 18, 2009 at Navarre Funeral Home. Family will receive friends and visitors at 3 p.m. with the service beginning at 4 p.m. David Ellis will be officiating.

At his request, his body will be cremated.

Arrangements are under the direction of Navarre Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 2444 Rollingbrook Drive, Baytown, Texas 77521, (281) 422-8111.