Barbara Lee

Barbara L. Lee age 86 of Erie, passed away on Thursday, November 20, 2014 at Manchester Commons.

She was born in Rochester, NY on September 5, 1928, a daughter of the late Harold R. and Frances E. Heldt.

She was a graduate of Strong Vincent High School and a student at Mercyhurst College. She married the late Leo Joseph Lee and was a homemaker dedicated to raising her family.

As a founding member of Saint Jude Church, she served as a Eucharistic Minister. The church always looked spotless as she also started the “Holy Dusters” group to keep everything clean.

Barabara was very active serving as volunteer and Board Member of Gannondale and volunteered at Emmaus Soup kitchen for 25 years. She also enjoyed watching sports. But now she is back with her husband, the “love of her life.”

In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her husband Leo Joseph in 1987 and a brother Richard Heldt.

Survivors include her son Charles Lee (Elaine) of State College, PA. Three daughters Cathy Palmer (Michael) of Erie; Chris Bell (Larry) of Erie; and Sandy Brainard. Six grandchildren Andy Lee, Joe Lee (Heather), Mike Palmer (Peggy), Tom Palmer (Heather), Shelly Bell, Kevin Bell (Jennie). Thirteen Great Grandchildren, a sister Margaret (Peggy) Knight and her husband Charles of Erie, several nephews and a niece also survive.

Friends are invited to the viewing at St. Jude Roman Catholic Church 2801 West 6th Street Erie, PA 16505 on Monday from 12:00 noon until the Mass of Christian burial at 2:00 p.m. with the Very Reverend John J. Detisch, V.F. as celebrant.

Burial to follow in Calvary Cemetery.

Arrangements entrusted to the Burton Westlake Funeral Home 3801 W. 26th Street Erie, PA 16506.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Emmaus Soup Kitchen 218 East 11th Street Erie, PA 16503 or to St. Jude Roman Catholic Church.