Joann Lovelady Lee

Joann Lovelady Lee was born on December 27, 1940, in Modesto, California, to the late George and Dezzie Louns. A lifelong resident of Modesto, she was the third of eight siblings and cherished a close bond with her beloved sister and best friend, Juanita.

Joann was a proud graduate of Modesto High School—home of the Panthers—and a devoted member of Clinton Chapel A.M.E. Zion Church. Her faith and family were the foundations of her life.

Joann shared many adventures with her family, traveling with her late husband, William “Bill” Lovelady, to visit relatives in Michigan, and later with her sisters and mother to see her oldest sister in Las Vegas—a destination that became a favorite family getaway. She also treasured time spent in North Carolina visiting her youngest sister, Rev. Melinda S. Moore.

After Bill’s passing, Joann married Otis Lee. Together, they enjoyed playing cards and hosting Friday night gatherings filled with games, food, and fellowship. Joann was known for her generosity, compassion, and deep love for her family. She cared not only for her own grandchildren but also extended her warmth and nurturing spirit to nieces, nephews, cousins, and family friends. She was a woman we all adored—kind-hearted, wise, and full of grace.

Joann had a special bond with her youngest sister, Melinda, who often visited simply to talk, laugh, and seek her sister’s advice. Inspired by the culinary talents of her mother and sisters, Joann even took cooking classes to enhance her own skills and carry on the family tradition.

Joann was preceded in death by her parents, George and Dezzie Louns; her two beloved husbands, William Lovelady and Otis Lee; her siblings Shirley Brown, Georgette Taylor, Juanita Clark, George Louns, and Russell Louns; her nephew Jeffrey Louns; son-in-law, David Martin Miller; and brother-in-law, Rev. David L. Moore, along with nephew Jonathan Moore.

She leaves behind a legacy of love and strength in the hearts of many. Cherished in memory by her devoted children: Dean William Lovelady, Denise Marie Miller, Diane Marie Ducre (Elton), and Debra Marie Baker (Bobby), all of the home; devoted grandchildren: Monique Marie Miller, Monica Renee Harris (Jarelle), Anthony Maynard Miller, Brandon Decree, Letashia Wilbon (Reggie), Christopher Lovelady (Jacqua), Gabrielle Jones (Allen), Abilee Robinson (Tanner), William Baker, Taylore Baker, Leslie Baker and Quintin Baker; great grandchildren: Reggie Wilbon, Jr., Ane’Jah Wilbon, Laiyana Wilbon, Camren Lovelady, Bria Lovelady, Lucas Jones, Lilly Jones, Jaelyn Miller, Devon Hillary, Dallas Lang, Jeremiah Edmerson, Jasiah Edmerson, Jedediah Harris, Terell Sadler, Savant Sadler and Marcel Baker; her dear sister: Rev. Melinda S. Moore of Washington, NC, whose sons and their wives: Dr. Joshua Moore (Dr. Shenita) of Waxhaw, NC; Rev. James Moore (Dr. Donneshia) of Greenville, NC; Joseph Moore of Washington, NC, continue her legacy with love.

Joann’s memory will forever be cherished. She was a pillar of love, humility, and joy whose life impacted generations.

Joann’s memory will forever be cherished. She was a pillar of love, humility, and joy whose life impacted generations.