Jesse Clarence Lee, 86, of Excelsior Springs, passed away Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at his home, surrounded by his loving family.
Jesse was born on April 1, 1939, in Mosby, the son of Oren C. and Frances A. (Clevenger) Lee. He was first united in marriage to Wanda Davenport of Excelsior Springs on April 5, 1958; they later divorced. He was later united in marriage to Deborah Sue Forsha of Higginsville on March 15, 1995; she survives of the home.
Additional survivors include: son, Rick (Vicki) Lee of Jefferson City; two daughters, Theresa (David) Stalder and Lisa (Rick) Prouty, both of Excelsior Springs; two stepsons, Brian (Michelle) McKown of Wellington and Devin Carney of Independence; stepdaughter, Staci (Mark) Crabtree of Chillicothe; nine grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren; brother, Jerry Lee; and sister, Carol K. Proffitt.
In addition to his parents, Jesse was preceded in death by his two sisters Patty Lyon and Billie Adams.
Jesse was raised and educated in Ray County, attending school in both Polo and Richmond, and was a graduate of Richmond High School. Following high school, he began his working career at the A & P Warehouse in Fairfax. He later became a home builder and contractor, working both locally and abroad. During this time, Jesse also dedicated many years of service to the State of Missouri as a lead carpenter at the Higginsville Rehabilitation Center, where he retired after 24 years. He proudly served his country in the Army National Guard.
Jesse had a deep love for the outdoors and could often be found moving dirt-especially enjoying landscaping projects. He also enjoyed fishing, traveling, and spending quality time with his family. A lover of a good buffet, particularly at the casino, Jesse always made sure he got his money’s worth. He will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.
The family would like to thank Three Rivers Hospice for all the loving care given to the family.
The family suggests memorial contributions be made to either the Charge Syndrome Foundation or St. Jude’s Hospital for Children. They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home, 507 East Main Street-P.O. Box 190, Richmond, MO 64085.
Visitation with funeral services will be held on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond, with visitation beginning at 10:00 A.M., with services to follow at 11:00 A.M. Burial will be in Lexington Memory Gardens. Please remember to share your memories of Jesse with the family by visiting www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.
Source: KMZU, The Farm
