Russel Vance Lee

Russel Vance Lee went to be with his Lord, Saturday, September 7, 2013 at his home surrounded by his family. He was born September 14, 1923 in Arapahoe. He was the son of the late Manley Bryan and Lena Brinson Lee.

He was a life long member of Bethany Christian Church where he served as a Deacon and Elder. For 67 years, he was a member of Rainbow Lodge #479, where in 2006; he received his 60 year pin. Activities also included membership in the Scottish Rite and Shrine. During his career, Mr. Lee farmed, sold vacuums, encyclopedias and worked in NARF, Cherry Point where he retired after 30 years. For the next 34 years, he was a master saw sharpener and an avid gardener. He was often seen mowing the lawn and riding around the county with his beloved German Shephard. Mr. Lee entered the US Navy in 1941 at the age of 17. He served during WWII and was a reservist. In May 2011, he attended the Honors Flight to Washington D.C. honoring WWII Veterans.

Mr. Lee was predeceased by his loving wife of 58 years, Ruth Rogers Lee.

He is survived by his three daughters, Donna Lee Altman and husband, Marion of Arapahoe; Joy Lee Carawan of Oriental; Jewel Lee Styron and husband, CH of Arapahoe; and Dr. Tim Carawan of Reelsboro. Mr Lee is also survived by nine grandchildren, Franz Altman and wife, Denise of New Bern; Jonathan Altman and wife, Lori of Olympia; Andy Altman and wife, Erica of Alliance; Terri Salter and husband, Bryan of Reelsboro; Chris Carawan of Charlotte; Brian Carawan of Reelsboro; Michelle Verhaeghe and husband, Grant of Raliegh; Ken Styron and wife, Rowena of West Hartford, CT; and Craig Styron and wife, Kalie of Arapahoe. He is survived by 14 great grandchildren; Sarah Altman, Sean Altman, Wesley Altman, Brooklyn Altman, Brinley Altman, Hannah Altman, Emma Altman, Bryce Salter, Faith Salter, Brandon Russel Salter, Rylan Verhaeghe, Ellie Verhaeghe, Abigail Styron, and Abigail Bretz. He is also sruvived by many special friends, nieces and nephews, and his faithful dog, Veronica.

Funeral services will be conducted on Tuesday, September 10, 2013, at 11:00 a.m. at Bethany Christian Church in Arapahoe with the Rev. Merritt Watson and the Rev. Gary Bryan officiating. Interment will be in Don Lee Cemetery with Masonic Rites and military honors.

The family will receive friends at Bryant Funeral Home from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday night and at other times at the home of Marion and Donna Altman, 6026 Hwy 306 South.

In lieu of flowers the family suggested memorals may be made to Hospice of Pamlico, 11146 Hwy 55 E. Grantsboro, NC 28529.