Russell Ray Lee Sr.

Shortly after Russell's birth, his family relocated to Arkansas, where he spent his childhood until adulthood. Due to family obligations, he completed only up to the third grade to help tend to the farm. In February of 1944, Russell joined the U.S. Navy during World War II, serving with honor until his discharge in June 1946. After the war, he became a commercial construction worker, contributing to the development of Oklahoma’s roadways, overpasses, and bridges.

On January 17, 1948, Russell married Dorothy Fox, the love of his life. Together, they enjoyed 60 wonderful years of marriage before Dorothy’s passing in 2008. They raised four children: Wanda, Shirley, Jeannie, and Russell Jr. Russell was a dedicated husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, always teaching his family the importance of kindness, hard work, and humility, while instilling in them a strong moral foundation.

Although Russell was unable to continue his formal education, he was an avid reader, particularly of history and science. In his free time, he enjoyed watching Laurel and Hardy movies, listening to country music, gardening, working in the yard, visiting casinos, and spending time with his family. Despite being colorblind, he had an extraordinary appreciation for the beauty of nature.

Russell was a devout, baptized Christian who lived his life with deep faith and integrity.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Dorothy, his parents William and Sadie Lee, all seven of his brothers and two sisters, and his son-in-law Pete Shurow Sr.

Russell leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion, remembered by his children: Wanda Shurow of Norman, Shirley Walters of Norman, Jeannie Lee-Scruggs (Larry) of Tecumseh, and Russell Lee Jr. (Pamela) of Oklahoma City; his seven grandchildren; many great-grandchildren; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

Russell will forever be cherished as a kind and selfless man who would give the shirt off his back to anyone in need. He witnessed the transition from horse and buggy to space exploration and embraced each era with curiosity and grace.

A graveside service for Russell will be held on Saturday, February 1, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery, 2301 E Indian Hills Rd, Norman, OK 73071.