Lee James Booker

KIRBYVILLE — Lee James Booker, 85, of Kirbyville, Texas, passed away on March 3, 2025. He was born August 7, 1939, in Kirbyville, Texas to Odis and LOD Booker of the Mount Union Community in Jasper County. Lee graduated from Kirbyville High School and earned his bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology from Texas College. Lee proudly served his country for 24 years in the United States Army. In 1982, Lee moved to Tyler, where he taught ROTC at Texas College and later oversaw the maintenance department throughout his tenure. He influenced and mentored countless students during his time there, instilling values of discipline, leadership, and integrity. Lee was an active and faithful member of People Missionary Baptist Church in Tyler, Texas, where he served as a deacon for many years. He moved back to his childhood hometown and continued serving as a deacon at Springhill Missionary Baptist Church, Magnolia Springs, Texas. His commitment to his faith and community was evident in all aspects of life, touching the hearts of those around him. Outside of his work and service, Lee had a love for sports, particularly golf. He also enjoyed fishing in his leisure time. He was a diehard fan of the Dallas Cowboys and loved watching them play.

Lee James was preceded in death by his father, Odis Booker, and mother, LOD Booker, and brothers Isiah, Leslie, William Wade, Alton, and Leroy. He is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years, Barbara Booker and their four children: Benita Branham (Cesseyle), Michelle Douglas (Joe), Greg Booker, Candice Townsend (Greg). Lee is also survived by his grandchildren Jasmine Wabbington, Ashley Colter (James), Micayla Branham, Harrison Branham, as well as five great-grandchildren who brought him great joy and he loved so much. In addition to his immediate family, Lee is survived by his siblings Mable Berrott, Opal Flanigan, Alfonso (Ruth), Odis (Lois), Chester, Alvin, Kirk (Glenda), and Floyd (Clementine), and a host of nieces, nephews and cousins.

Lee James Booker was a man of great character, compassion, and faith. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

The celebration of Lee’s life will be held on March 15, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Springhill Missionary Baptist Church. The funeral home is Coleman’s Mortuary, located at 1559 N. Fletcher St, Jasper, TX 75951. For any inquiries, contact the funeral home at 409-384-3711. We invite friends and family to come together to honor and celebrate the life of Lee James Booker.