James Trueman Lee, 78, of Starke passed away on the 11th of March 2025 at the Malcom Randall VA Hospital in Gainesville after an extended illness. James was born July 26, 1946, in Starke to Richard Lon (R.L.) and Ruth Fee Lee. Spending most of his life in Starke, James grew up surrounded by family and lifelong friends. James left Starke in 1965 to join the US Marine Corps (ooh rah) where he served his country proudly and valiantly during the Vietnam War. He was honorably discharged in 1974 and continued his military career in the Army National Guard until his retirement in 1996. In addition to his military career, he also retired from Union Correctional Institution in 2001. James was preceded in death by his parents, his youngest brother Richard Anthony (Tony) Lee and his half-sister Barbara Jean Amason Parrish. He was also predeceased by his fifth wife, Ann Podejko Lee, whom he truly adored. James is survived by his first wife and mother of his children, Linda Sanders Lee, of Melrose and his brother, Carlton Leroy (Corky) Lee of Starke. He also leaves behind two children, Lana Marcia (Marcy) Lee and James Christopher (Chris) Lee, both of Melrose. James proudest accomplishment was his granddaughter, Jessica Kaitlyn Doty of Melrose. He also held a special place in his heart for Jacoby Hankerson, of Starke, whom he considered his adopted grandson. James lovingly referred to both grandchildren as "knotheads." James leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, brothers and sisters in law, and cousins as well as Anns daughter, Danielle Sutton Sanchez. James will be cremated under the direction of Jones Gallagher Funeral Home of Starke and his ashes will be interred at Jacksonville National Cemetery with full military honors. There will be no formal service, but an informal gathering will take place at a later date at the cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Operation Catnip in Gainesville in honor of our father and the only two cats he ever liked, Bosco and One-Eyed Jack. Heartfelt thanks to the staff, doctors, nurses, and caregivers of the VA Hospital and Mederi Caretenders for their dedicated care of our father.Arrangements are under the care of JONES-GALLAGHER FUNERAL HOME, 620 East Nona Street, Starke, FL 32091. (904) 964-6200. www.jonesgallagherfh.com Cemetery Jacksonville National Cemetery 4083 Lannie Road Jacksonville FL 32218 US Funeral Service Friday, April 11, 2025 10:00 AM - Jacksonville National Cemetery 4083 Lannie Road Jacksonville FL 32218 US Funeral Home Jones - Gallagher Funeral Home - Starke 620 E. Nona Street Starke FL - 32091 US (904) 964-6200