John David Lee, Sr., affectionately known to all as “Johnny,” passed away on April 26, 2025, at the age of 91. A lifelong resident of Okmulgee County, Johnny was born in Hannah on April 3, 1934, to Ervin and Letha (Choate) Lee.
Johnny graduated from Okmulgee High School and entered the workforce shortly thereafter. He began his career at ASG Glass Plant and later worked at Anthony’s and Wylie’s. He eventually found his calling at Ball Brothers, where he enjoyed a long and fulfilling career before retiring in 1993. Retirement didn’t slow him down – he continued working part-time at Sharpe’s and pursued his passion for woodworking, helping build various projects over the years.
On November 7, 1953, Johnny married the love of his life, Barbara Livingston, in Okmulgee. Together, they made their home in the Wilson area, where they built a life filled with love, family and community.
Johnny loved the outdoors and spent much of his time fishing and gardening. A devoted animal lover, he especially enjoyed caring for his chickens, goats and cows. Above all, Johnny cherished visiting with friends and neighbors – a pastime that brought him great joy.
He was a faithful member of Wilson Baptist Church, where his presence and warm spirit were deeply valued.
Johnny will be remembered for his kind heart, strong work ethic and the countless April 3, 1934 – April 26, 2025
ways he touched the lives of those around him.
Johnny is preceded in death by his parents Ervin and Letha, daughters Cindy Hoover and Connie Lee, brother Bill Lee and sister Betty Olsen, grandsons Keith Henderson and Caleb Lee.
Johnny is survived by his wife Barbara, of 71 years, daughter Cheryl Henderson and husband Billy of Okmulgee, son John “David” Lee, Jr. and his wife Kimberly of Bixby, brother Don Lee and sister Wilma Brown, grandchildren Angela Wilson, Amy Mc-Cray, Stacy Thompson, Brandon Lee, Taylor Simmons and Kyzer Lee, nine great-grandchildren, one greatgreat grandchildren and two on the way.
A memorial service for Johnny will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 10, 2025, at Wilson Baptist Church, with Pastor Kevin Jones officiating. Interment will immediately follow at Wilson Cemetery.
Arrangements and cremation services have been entrusted to McClendon-Winters Funeral Home of Okmulgee. Memories, condolences, photos and videos may be shared with the family on Johnny’s Tribute Page at www.mcclendon- winters.com.
