Barbara Jan Lee

Barbara Jan Lee (née Lowe), age 78, passed away peacefully on September 20, 2025, in Bradenton, Florida. Born on October 21, 1946, in the Bronx, New York, Barbara lived a life filled with love, laughter, and unwavering devotion to her family.

Barbara earned her Master’s Degree in Education and began her professional journey as a teacher—a role she cherished deeply. However, Barbara often said that the best job she ever had was being a stay-at-home mom. Her heart was always with her family, and she poured herself into raising her children and nurturing those around her.

In 1966, Barbara experienced what she would later call the most life-changing moment of her life. After meeting Ronald Dean Lee through her roommate Brenda, she famously told her, “I hope you aren’t serious about him, because I’m going to marry him!” True to her word and spirit, Barbara married Ronald on March 25, 1967. For the next 58 years, they built a beautiful life together—one grounded in love, resilience, and shared joy. Through every challenge and triumph—including raising their three children—they remained steadfast partners and best friends.

Barbara’s greatest joy came from being surrounded by family. She is survived by her beloved husband Ronald Lee; daughters Tami Todd (husband Glen Todd) and Cyndi Brown (husband Charlie Brown); grandchildren Dean, Madison, Devin, Sera, Kyle, Savannah, Tristan, Hannah, Brooke, Megan, Taylor, and Grant; and great-grandchildren Miles, Mia, Madilyn, David, Easton, Ryhs, Grayson, Jenna, and Jonathan. She also leaves behind her siblings Carlton “Skip” Lowe and Alyce Jurgens; brother-in-law Larry Lee (wife Greta); sisters-in-law Debbie Eagleberger (husband Dennis) and Judy Lee; along with many cherished nieces and nephews.

Barbara was preceded in death by her parents Carlton and Olga Lowe and by her precious son, David Ashford Lee.

After retiring to Florida with Ron—a move that marked the beginning of a vibrant new chapter—Barbara embraced every opportunity to live life to the fullest. Her crafting hobbies flourished as did her social calendar. Whether organizing and attending events with the Elks Lodge (bingo nights, trivia, Feather Your Nest to name a few)—or donning purple with pride among the Red Hat Ladies, Barbara brought sparkle wherever she went.

Those who knew Barb knew she never met a stranger. She had an innate ability to make everyone feel welcome—always dressed with flair and radiating warmth. A lover of bad sci-fi movies and good books alike; a volunteer who gave generously of her time; passionate mahjong player; a woman who sparkled both inside and out—Barbara embodied joy in its purest form.

To sum up the most wonderful purple-loving wife… sister… mother… aunt…Nanny… friend… confidant… fancy-with-flair lady we love: Barbara Jan Lee leaves behind a legacy of love that will continue to shine brightly in all who were lucky enough to know her.

A celebration of life service for Barbara will be held Saturday, September 27, 2025 at 11:00 AM at Robert Toale & Sons Celebration of Life Center, 4310 Solutions Lane, Bradenton, Florida 34211.

May her memory bring comfort to those who knew her—and may we all carry forward the light she so freely gave.