Joan Shirley Lee

Joan was born on October 8, 1938, in Clinton, South Carolina, to Roy Cannon and Virginia Lawson Cannon. She grew up in Clinton, where she graduated from Clinton High School and enjoyed an active youth filled with softball and cheerleading. Known for her spirited nature and determination, Joan carried those qualities throughout her remarkable life.

On December 22, 1955, Joan married the love of her life, Master Sergeant Calvin Lee, just as he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. Together, they built a life rooted in love and service. Despite the demands of being an Air Force spouse, Joan forged her own path, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in English with a focus on Management from the University of Southern Mississippi in 1991, graduating with highest honors. Her career began in 1960 as a stenographer and secretary with the Armed Forces, and through ambition, hard work, and intellect, she rose to retire in 1993 as a Senior Administrative Officer at level GM-13. Her roles as a civil servant for the US Navy included Director of Administration, Supervisor of Shipbuilding in Pascagoula, Mississippi, and Public Affairs Officer, leaving a legacy of dedication and excellence.

Joan’s passions extended beyond her career. She found joy in gardening, volunteering, and, above all, her family. In Beaumont, Texas, she gave her time to Calder Baptist Church and Christus St. Elizabeth Hospital. After moving to San Antonio in October 2016, she continued her service at Blue Skies of Texas East.

Joan is survived by her son, Charles E. Lee, and his wife, Robyn, of Gulfport, Mississippi; daughters, Cindy Dougherty and her husband, Todd, of Greenville, Texas; Stephanie Mauffray and her husband, Randy, of San Antonio; Kathy Albert and her husband, Phil, of Kiln, Mississippi and her nephew, Barry Cannon, of Clinton, South Carolina. She was “Mimi” to 12 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren, all of whom she cherished deeply.

A memorial service will be held at 3:15 p.m. on Thursday, March 27, 2025, at Freedom House Chapel at Blue Skies of Texas West, 12455 Freedom Way, San Antonio, Texas. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Disabled American Veterans (dav.org) or Wounded Warrior Project (woundedwarriorproject.org), causes close to Joan’s heart in honor of her husband’s service and her commitment to veterans.

Joan will be deeply missed but forever remembered for her strength, kindness, and unwavering love for her family and community.