Joseph Earl Lee, 88 of Indian Head, Maryland.

His Journey

Joseph Earl Lee departed this life on March 4, 2025.  He was born on September 9, 1936 in La Plata, Maryland to the late Harry Jack and Bessie Elizabeth Lee.  He was one of ten children and grew up in La Plata, Maryland.

He was affectionately called "little devil" by his family and friends.  Laughter has a unique way of bringing people together, and for Earl, it was a key aspect of his relationship with his siblings. He had an infectious laugh that could lighten the mood in any room. His sense of humor was one of his most endearing qualities, and he used it to create a joyful and warm environment for his family.  He loved to joke around with his siblings, turning ordinary moments into cherished memories. Whether it was a funny story from his day or a clever prank, he had a knack for making everyone laugh. His laughter was not just about humor; it was a way of expressing his love and making those around him feel happy and valued.

He attended Bel Alton High School, in Bel Alton, Maryland.  Earl was an avid baseball player, playing on the Pisgah Boo Boos with his brothers and nephews. The legacy of the Pisgah Boo Boos extends far beyond the baseball field. The lessons learned, the bonds formed, and the memories created have left an indelible mark on each member of the team. For him, playing baseball with his brother and nephews was a source of immense joy and fulfillment, a testament to the power of family and the enduring magic of sport. The Pisgah Boo Boos remain a beloved chapter in their lives, a reminder of the beauty of teamwork and the joy of playing for the love of the game.

The story of the Pisgah Boo Boos is a heartwarming tale of family, friendship, and the joy of baseball. It highlights the importance of coming together, supporting one another, and finding happiness in shared passions. Whether on the field or off, the spirit of the Pisgah Boo Boos lives on, inspiring others to embrace the game with the same enthusiasm and love that defined their journey.

Earl was fascinated by the massive machines that shaped the landscapes around him. This fascination turned into a lifelong career in heavy construction, where he became known for his skill and precision in operating heavy equipment. Whether it was a towering crane, a bulldozer, or an excavator, he handled each with a deft touch that spoke of his deep understanding and respect for the machinery until he was no longer able to work in the industry.

There is a card game that brings family and friends together.  Earl had a profound love for playing "Pitch," a card game that, over the years, became synonymous with the joy and camaraderie shared among his family and friends. The card game has since evolved into a cherished pastime for many, but for Earl, it was more than just a game; it was a tradition, a bond, and a source of countless memories.

One of Earl's favorite things to do was to let his nephews borrow his cars. He believed that the joy of driving a well-maintained vehicle should be experienced by everyone, especially those he loved. He would hand them the keys with a smile, watching with pride as they drove off, their faces alight with excitement.

Earl spent his later years in Genesis Rehabilitation Center in Waldorf, Maryland until he departed this life on Tuesday, March 4, 2025.  He was a joy to be around at the center.

He was preceded in death by his parents Harry Jack and Bessie Elisabeth Lee.  Out of the union with Rose they have five children. He was preceded in death by two daughters Gale and Tammy Lee, grandchildren, Andrew Washington and Arnecia Smooth and eight siblings Frank Bonds, Irving Lee, La Verne Williams, Herman Lee, Tom Lee, Gladys Underdown, Russell Lee and Barbara Kilson.  Left to cherish his memory are his sons Carroll, Greg and Donny Lee, his grandchildren Latrice Lyles, Cheyenne Lee, Tamika Lee and Lamar Jackson and one sibling Donald Lee.

He is also survived by a host of nieces, nephews, and dedicated nephew Richard Gregory Williams, all of whom will miss him dearly.

His viewing, will be held from 9:00 a.m. until Mass of Christian Burial, 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, March 19, 2025 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 201 St. Mary's Avenue, La Plata, Maryland.  Interment, Church Cemetery.