- Date Of Birth: December 26, 1929
- Date Of Death: March 15, 2020
- State: Texas
Jimmie Darlene Windham Lea was born in Weaver Community (Timpson, TX) on December 26, 1929. Her parents and siblings worked the farm when she was very young, and her Dad would read the bible to her every evening after supper. Some of her fondest childhood memories included traveling 4 miles to church each Sunday in a wagon pulled by 2 work mules.
She met Robert Lea, “the best thing that ever happened to her,” in 1947, on the church steps in Timpson, TX, and they married one year later. They enjoyed life together for 60 years. Most of her adult life was spent raising three children, providing care for elderly parents, and working as an office assistant to various companies, including two medical offices. They really enjoyed the “retirement years,” which included spending time with grandkids, working on house projects (with several coffee breaks), watching the birds and squirrels from their back porch swing, and playing Canasta each day at 4:00.
According to her, “The most important thing to know is to believe in God’s love and provisions, love each other (most of the time), love our children, (all of the time), and always be thankful for every day of life” And my God shall supply all your needs according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19
Preceded in death by her husband, Robert Lynn Lea; son, Don Edward Lea; parents, Derious & Jessie Windham; brothers, Vertis and Walter Windham; and sister, Addie Mae Whiteside.
Survived by her daughter, Janis Lynn Byrd, and spouse, Charles, of Temple; son, Russell Wayne Lea, and spouse, Becky, of Salado; grandchildren, Wendy Staes, and spouse, Mark; Jeffery Byrd, and spouse, Holly; Clinton Lea; Crystal Lea; Adam Lea; Erica Lea-Simka and spouse, Ryan; and Rachel Lea Roacho and spouse, Thomas; ten great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and many friends.
