Paula Jean Lee

Paula was born April of 1939 in Effingham, Illinois to the late Pauline Watson Engel Norris and H. R, Engel.

In 1964, she married John Lawrence Lee. They were married for 56 years, before he preceded her in death.

Paula graduated from Effingham High School in 1957. She then moved to St. Louis, Missouri to study at the Jewish Hospital School of Nursing where she earned her Registered Nurse degree in 1960. For most of her career, Paula worked at the Southeast Missouri Mental Health Center as the Director of Nursing.

After retirement, she and John moved to Lake Ozark, Missouri, where they enjoyed boating, fishing, golf and card games. They spent their winters in Green Valley, Arizona. Later they moved to Pearland, Texas to be near their daughter and her family. After John’s death, Paula moved to Lake Jackson, Texas.

Paula was an avid reader. She and her husband, John, were world travelers, they especially enjoyed visiting Mexico and cruises. They visited nearly all of the states, many national parks, and all of the continents except for Antarctica. Paula also enjoyed gardening, embroidery, and collecting antiques.

She is survived by her daughter Amy Lee Smolen (Ed) of Lake Jackson, TX.; granddaughter, Leah Smolen of Buffalo, NY; and grandson, Mr. David Smolen of Abilene, TX. and many beloved cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Graveside services will be held at Hillcrest Cemetery in Fulton, Missouri, John’s hometown. Date and time to be announced.

Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer's Association.