NAHUNTA — Jesus called Elvera “Mema” Lee home early Saturday morning, November 26, 2022, at the age of 91.
She was born on July 29, 1931, to the late Abner and Fannie Mercer. Her married name was Elvera Louise Lee, but she was called “Mema” by all of her grandchildren and friends. Three people have had the honor and privilege of calling her “Ma,” Billy Michael Lee, Marilyn Louise Williams, and Terry Randolph Lee. Her late husband, Bill Lee, of 74 years affectionately called her Vera.
Mema was raised on the farm and knew what it meant to work, especially when it came to picking and stringing tobacco. She knew what it meant to love, and she knew what it meant to serve. Mema mentored and discipled people whether she was working in the fields, cleaning the Brantley County High School, cooking in her kitchen, or attending church at Hoboken Baptist. Mema stood alone when it came to cooking and preparing food. It was her mission to use the talents that God gave her in the kitchen to serve, to minister, and to bless as many people as possible with her feasts.
Mema was a devout member of Hoboken Baptist and enjoyed attending any time the doors were open, especially looking forward to her weekly Sunday School class. Her card ministry touched the lives of many, many people. Elvera Louise — Mema — lived her life fully convinced that Jesus Christ is exactly who He claims to be, and it was evident to all those who met her.
She was proceeded in death by her parents, Abner and Fannie Mercer; her infant son, Timmy Lee; her husband, Eugene “Bill” Lee; and her sister and brother-in law, Lucille and Johnny “Jake” Thomas.
She is survived by children Billy Michael Lee (Theda); Marilyn Williams; Terry Lee (Bonnie); grandchildren Brea Crews; Amy Allen (Damian); Mindy Williams; Brenson Lee; Kane Lee (Grace); a brother, Ralph Mercer (Edna); and seven great grandchildren, Amory Crews, Greyson Crews, Brexton Crews; Sophia Lee, Ava Lee; Alora Lee, and Ruth Lee.
A funeral service was held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, November 29 at Hoboken Baptist Church. Burial followed in Hoboken City Cemetery. The family received friends at the church at 10 a.m. Tuesday.
Staff members and nurses from Bayview Nursing Home in Nahunta and members of the T.E.L. Sunday School Class were honorary pallbearers.
Sympathy may be expressed by signing the online registry at www.musicfuneralhome.com.
