Henry Franklin Lee, 73, Carthage, Missouri, passed away peacefully on January 1, 2026, at Freeman West Hospital, Joplin, Missouri. He was born on June 10, 1952, in Joplin, Missouri, the son of the late Oscar Lee and Venita (Royster) Lee. Henry’s life was a testament to his friendly, funny, and adventurous spirit.
Henry’s journey through life was shared with his beloved wife of 21 years, Tressa “Jane” Lee, who stood by him as a loving partner and best friend. He was a devoted father to his daughters, Valisa Schrader (Brad), Heather Lee, Holly Spurgeon, and Shannon Yoder (Chris); and daughter-in-law, Susie Ellzey. His legacy continued to grow with his grandchildren, Samantha, Chad, Ashlyn, Alyssa, Ethan, Kylee, Kyle, Blaze, Mariah, Blake, Bailey, Blaine, Nikol, Alex, Lexie, Marcus, Serenity, Atticus, Temperance, Gracie, and Chloe; and his great-grandchildren, Kail, Avery, Bentley, Jas, Daxton, Kaisyn, Heavenly, Edith, Barrett, Lincoln, Jayaa, Jemaa, Rylee, Taytum, and one expected arrival in April. Henry’s brothers, Charles, Floyd, Tom, and Charles in Wichita, Kansas, also survive him, along with many extended family members and a host of friends. He was also preceded in death by a son, Billy Ellzey; five brothers, Alvin, Charlie, Frank, Kenneth, and Jerry Lee; and five sisters, Charlene Thomas, Retha Swatosh, Shirley Crouch, Alice Roberson, and Wilma Lee.
Henry’s professional life was marked by dedication and hard work. He spent many years in production at Conagra Foods and later contributed his skills to the H.J.D. Gas company in Cleveland, Oklahoma. His colleagues knew him as a man who brought not only his expertise but also his humor and warmth to the workplace. Beyond his work, Henry had a passion for classic cars, with Corvettes holding a special place in his heart. He could often be found at car shows or simply enjoying the beauty of a well-maintained engine. Another of Henry’s favorite pastimes was Morel mushroom hunting, where his adventurous nature led him through the woods in search of the elusive fungi.
Henry’s infectious smile and his penchant for humor were his trademarks. He had an uncanny ability to lift the spirits of those around him, always ready with a joke or a playful tease. His presence was a source of joy and laughter, brightening the lives of all who knew him. Above all, Henry’s love for his family was the cornerstone of his life. He was a pillar of strength, support, and love for his loved ones.
Funeral services will be held at 2 pm, Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at Carthage Nazarene Church, Carthage. The burial will follow at Park Cemetery, Carthage. The family will receive friends from 5-7 pm, Monday, January 5, 2026 at the Carthage Nazarene Church. Memorial gifts are suggested to Parkinson’s Foundation in care of Knell Mortuary. Online condolences may be expressed through www.knellmortuary.com. Arrangements are under the direction and personal care of Knell Mortuary.
