Mr. John L. Lee was born on February 6, 1922 in Carolina County, Virginia to the late Harold and the late Ida Mae Foster Lee. He was one of three children.

The Lee family moved to Washington, D.C. when John was young. It was in Washington, D.C. that John met Alberta Bernice Atlee. They married on July 3, 1941 and shared their lives together for 67 years until her passing in 2008. Their union had already been blessed with Alberta's son, Lowell Atlee, however, four additional sons were added to the family; Sterling, Steven, John and James.

John worked for the District Government as a Chauffer and drove many of the dignitaries to their destinations including the former Mayor, Marion Barry. He was a dedicated employee and retired after more than 30 years of service.

John was down to earth. He always said what he meant and meant what he said. He was an avid reader and enjoyed staying current with today's issues by daily reading the Washington Post. He was a history "buff" and would often recall details of things past to anyone who had an ear to listen. He could be quite the talker.

In addition, John enjoyed his outings to Denny's and the Old Country Buffet, but also favored Chinese food as well. He was also fond of playing the slots especially at the Rod and Reel Club when taken by his caregiver, Sheila Cole.

In addition to his parents and wife, Alberta, John is preceded in death by two sons, John Calvin Lee "Butch" and Sterling Lee; sister, Beatrice and brother, Russell.

Left to mourn his passing are his sons, Steven and James "Jimmie" Lee and step-son, Lowell Atlee; daughter, Mary Lucille Vaughan and her husband, Victor, a host of grandchildren, great grandchildren, brothers and sisters-in-law, and other relatives and friends, as well as a devoted caregiver, Sheila Cole.

His viewing will be held on Monday, October 29, 2012, 9:00 am until time of service, 10:00 am in the Chapel of Thornton Funeral Home.

Interment, Cedar Hill Cemetery, Suitland, MD.