Ralonda Frances Lee

With heavy hearts and enduring love, we announce the passing of Ralonda Lee, age 49, of El Paso, TX. Departing from this world on Friday, December 15, 2023, Ralonda's passing gently reminds us that the depth of our sorrow is a measure of the depth of our affection. She is a cherished soul whose memory will forever be a beacon of the love and joy she brought into our lives.

Ralonda was born in Philadelphia, PA, on March 3, 1974, to Marie Elaine Russ and Ernest Russ. The youngest of six children, she blossomed in the city's heart, bringing laughter and light to everyone she met.

Ralonda's academic path began in the nurturing classrooms of Philadelphia's school system, progressing seamlessly from middle school to elementary, onto her proud graduation from Samuel Fels High School. Her intellectual journey continued as she earned her Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Capella University as well as a Master's in Business Administration from Colorado Technical University. Each academic milestone she reached was a reflection of her insatiable curiosity and unwavering commitment to not just comprehend, but also to enhance the world around her.

It was in Philadelphia that Ralonda met the love of her life, Tyrone Lee, embarking on a beautiful journey together marked by love, resilience, and shared dreams. Excited to start their new lives together, the two united in love and hope as they exchanged vows on September 4, 1998. Their union was blessed with Ralonda's son (Lamall) and Tyrone's daughter (Jazz).

As a blended family, they eagerly anticipated expanding and happily added three more sons (Tyrone Jr./Delante/Darius) and a daughter (Tamia) to perfect their family. Each chapter of their story was filled with joy, challenges, and an unbreakable family bond as they navigated moving from one military tour of duty to another after Tyrone joined the Army, eventually making their home in El Paso, Texas. Ralonda loved being a mother and always treasured time spent with her children. Stories of the children's escapades and accomplishments could easily fill entire conversations. She equally loved being a grandmother to her two-year-old grandson, Jayceon (JJ).

Affectionately nicknamed 'Pee Wee' and 'Lizzy' growing up, she made sure those nicknames did not follow her into adulthood. Ralonda was a free spirit who loved to sing and dance. An avid animal lover, Ralonda was designated the 'Ms. Doolittle' of the family. Sharing her home and heart with a menagerie of cherished pets (rabbits, cats, dogs, you name it) have all cohabitated with Ralonda at one time or another.

Ralonda will always be remembered for her infectious smile and giggle. She was a lowkey comedian who loved to laugh and could keep you laughing for hours. Ralonda had an extraordinary gift of making others feel special, even amidst her own pain, a true testament to her character. She was an A-list wife, mother, sister, auntie, cousin, and friend.

Ralonda was preceded in death by her parents, Marie Elaine Russ (Robinson) and Ernest Russ; her son, Lamall Lee; and her father-in-law, Thomas A. Porter, Jr.

Left to cherish her memory are her husband, Tyrone Lee; three sons, Tyrone Lee Jr., Delante Lee, and Darius Lee; two daughters, Tamia Lee, and Jazz Lee; one grandson, Jayceon King Blair (JJ); two brothers, James (Kathy) Sergeant and Ronald (Sigrun) Russ; three sisters, Rosalind Russ (Gregory) Tobias, Rochelle (Tedarryl) Carmichael, and Renay (Casey) Russ; special aunt, Dolores (Robert) Lyons; mother-in-law Sharon (Assatta) Nobles, a host of cousins, nieces and nephews, in-laws/other relatives, and special friends.

As we mourn her passing, we also celebrate the extraordinary life of Ralonda Lee. Her memory will live on in the hearts of everyone who loved her and the lives she touched.

In honoring Ralonda's memory, we encourage all who knew her to share stories, laughter, and love, just as she would have wanted. Through our memories and actions, her legacy will continue to inspire and guide us. As we say farewell to Ralonda, we find comfort in knowing that her spirit lives on, a guiding light of love, laughter, and resilience.

A visitation for Ralonda will be held Saturday, January 6, 2024 from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Funeraria del Angel Restlawn, 8817 Dyer Street, El Paso, Texas 79904, followed by a Memorial service at 4:00 PM.