Lee P. Mahan, born August 26, 1933 in Williston Florida, passed away peacefully on March 7, 2019. Lee was a long term resident of Winter Park, Fl, but also resided in New Smyrna Beach, Fl, Memphis, Tenn. & Merritt Island, Fl.
Nursing became Lee’s calling, which was facilitated by her caretaking of her “Big Mama” who had Parkinson’s. Lee lived with her aunt & uncle (Ed & Eloise Sauls) while attending nursing school at the University of Florida where she graduated with her nursing degree. Lee spent 30 years in the nursing profession and retired as an operating room supervisor at Winter Park Memorial Hospital. But, Lee couldn’t stay from her passion for very long and was recruited to become the operating room director for Orange Memorial/Holiday Hospital where she worked 6 more years. Lee was known to be tough, but fair, and highly respected.
Family and friends meant the world to Lee and she left an indelible impression on anyone who spent time with her. She was a loving mother and friend to many and was known for her quick wit and great sense of humor.
There was no question about her commitment to the Blue & Orange, Florida Gator Pride. She enthusiastically enjoyed sports, especially her Gators. Lee played basketball in high school and loved golfing, fishing and traveling as an adult. She also had a special connection to New Smyrna Beach, Fl. and her relationship with the Lord played an important her in life. Lee was a long standing member of First United Methodist Church in Winter Park, Fl then a member of Coronado Methodist Church, New Smyrna Beach, Fl.
Lee was married at 21 to Robert E Bennett and survived by he and their 3 children, Charles E. Bennett (Beth), Janet L. Bennett, Victoria L. Howell. Additional survivors are two grandchildren Jessica P. Metcalf (Jason), Ashley L. Weaver (William), nieces Jeannie Wise, Kay Russell and Joni Malphrus. Lee was preceded in death by her parents; her sisters, Joan Wise, and Jean Ward.
As an expression of sympathy, memorial contributions may be sent to the American Cancer Society, First United Methodist Church of Winter Park, Fl. or Coronado Methodist Church of New Smyrna Beach, Fl in memory of Lee Mahan.
A Celebration of Lee's life will be held at Wylie-Baxley Funeral Home on Sunday, April 14, 2019, at 2:00 pm.
