Phyllis Jane Lee

Phyllis Lee Obituary

Phyllis Jane Lee, age 92, entered into heavenly rest on March 7, 2025. She was born on November 25, 1932, in Frederick, Oklahoma, to Ted and Maudie Thrush.

Phyllis grew up in Oklahoma City until her family moved to Hale Center, Texas, in 1949. It was there that she met the love of her life, Gerald Lee. The two were inseparable from the start — true sweethearts who built a life rooted in love, faith, and determination. Gerald greeted her sweetly and made her breakfast every morning until his passing in 2024. Together, they worked side by side, traveled the world, and achieved their dreams as a team.

Phyllis attended Abilene Christian College where she majored in Business and Art before marrying Gerald in 1951. In 1969, they moved to South Texas with their two sons, Chris and Craig, where they planted roots in the Portland community they loved so dearly.

Phyllis was as determined and tenacious in her career as she was loving and selfless in her personal life. In 1972, she entered the real estate profession, earning her broker's license in 1978. For over 40 years, she owned and operated Century 21 Lee Real Estate and All Pro Property Management in Portland and Ingleside, becoming a pillar of the local business community. Phyllis played an instrumental role in developing Portland and Ingleside into the thriving communities they are today. She and Gerald worked tirelessly to build neighborhoods and support families in finding homes.

Her dedication extended beyond her business. Phyllis held numerous leadership roles, including serving as Past President of the San Patricio Women’s Republican Association, Past President of the Ingleside Navy League, Past President of the Corpus Christi Broker's Association, and Past President of the San Patricio Realtors Association. Helping others find homes wasn’t just her career — it was her mission to support her community and guide fellow realtors toward success.

Despite her impressive achievements, Phyllis remained humble and grounded. Her generous spirit, thoughtful nature, and unwavering positivity left a lasting mark on everyone she encountered. She believed deeply in the power of prayer and visualization, often encouraging others to see possibility where there was doubt.

Phyllis was a gifted poet, artist, and singer. Her beautiful paintings reflected her thoughtful nature, and her heartfelt poems touched many lives. She also found joy singing with the Sweet Adelines, where she formed cherished friendships.

Phyllis’ unwavering faith was the cornerstone of her life. As a founding member of North Bay Church of Christ, she devoted herself wholeheartedly to her church family. Teaching the Ladies Bible Class brought her immense joy, where she welcomed every woman with kindness and shared her wisdom with warmth and grace. Her steadfast belief in God guided her every step, and her dedication to serving others was a reflection of her deep spiritual conviction.

Above all, Phyllis was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother — affectionately known as "Gran." Her love for her family was boundless, and she treasured every moment spent with them. She is survived by her two sons, Chris Lee and Craig Lee; daughter-in-law, Kendra Lee; grandchildren, Adam Lee, Amy Lee Strickman, and Zachary Lee; great-grandchildren, Tenley Strickman, Tucker Strickman, and Toliver Strickman; and many, many loving friends.

Phyllis lived her life with unwavering faith, boundless generosity, and a steadfast belief in the goodness of others. May her legacy of love, kindness, and determination continue to inspire those who knew her.

Visitation will be held at Winsteads’ Funeral Home at 500 Wildcat Drive from 5:00-7:00 PM on Friday, March 21, 2025. Funeral services will be held at North Bay Church of Christ at 1501 Denver Street on Saturday, March 22, 2025 at 10:00 AM.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Sunny Glen Children’s Home in San Benito, Texas (sunnyglen.org), or to support orphan care efforts in the Philippines through her dear friends, the Brown Family. These causes were close to Phyllis’ heart, reflecting her lifelong mission to help those in need.

Arrangements are under the direction and personal care of the professionals at Winsteads’ Funeral Home. (361) 643-6564 www.winsteadsfuneralhome.com