Jean Lee

Jean Shaner Lee, age 89, peacefully went home to be with the Lord on Friday, July 31, 2025, in Lynchburg, Virginia. Born in Lynchburg, Virginia, on August 8, 1935, she was the daughter of the late Clarence Duval Shaner and Sadie Brightwell Shaner. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband, John “Jack” Joseph Lee, Jr. and daughter, Kathleen Brenna Lee.

On December 27, 1958, Jean married the love of her life, John (Jack) J. Lee, Jr. Together, they built a life around their two sons, John and Mike, here in Lynchburg, Virginia. She was a devoted mother whose warmth filled every room, especially the kitchen, where she poured her love into every homemade meal. Her heart found peace along the trails of the Blue Ridge Parkway, where she cherished the beauty of nature and the joy of adventure. Her spirit, strength, and love will live on in every memory shared.

Jean grew up in Madison Heights, Virginia, and received her undergraduate degree in Physical Education from Lynchburg College in 1958. Lettering in three sports, she served on the honor court, graduated with honors, earning a 3.92 G.P.A. She later obtained her master’s in education from Lynchburg College in 1972. In 1978, she was selected to be in the Lynchburg College Sports Hall of Fame for her participation in women’s basketball, field hockey, and tennis programs. She began coaching in women’s tennis at E.C. Glass High School in the early 1960’s. She was also immensely proud of her time coaching the Lynchburg College women’s tennis team, leading them all the way in 78’ to the national tournament in Ada, Oklahoma, where they finished 8th in the country. She cherished every moment with her girls, both on and off the court, forming bonds that went far beyond the game. Her dedication, leadership, and love left a lasting impact on everyone she coached.

Jean leaves to cherish her memories her children, John J. Lee, III (Karen) of Forest, Virginia and Michael B. Lee (Kay) of Mechanicsville, Virginia. Five grandchildren, John J. Lee, IV, Tyler G. Lee, Patrick W. Lee of Forest, Virginia, Kelsey Brenna Lee, Brendan “Jack” Lee, of Mechanicsville, Virginia.

Friends will be received at Tharp Funeral Home, 220 Breezewood Drive, Lynchburg, Virginia, 24502 from 5-7 p.m. on Thursday, August 7th. A private graveside service will be held on the morning of the Friday, the 8th. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the American Heart Association or Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to The Summit in Lynchburg, Virginia for the exceptional care, kindness, and compassion shown to our mom. You will always be a part of our lives and in our hearts forever. Your unwavering support and love made all the difference in her life, and we are forever grateful.

Tharp Funeral Home, Lynchburg, is serving the family.