Rev. Charles Oral LEE

Reverend Charles O. Lee, who served as a pastor for more than sixty-five yeas, died at his home in McMinnville, TN on October 14, 2007. He was ninety-two years old and is survived by his wife Esther Malone Lee. He is also survived by three children and their spouses, Dr. Jimmy Ray Lee and Louise of Chattanooga, TN, Reverend Sammy Charles Lee and Brenda of McMinnville and Mrs. Ruth Ann Workman and Gary of Chattanooga, TN; five grandchildren, Charles Edward Lee, Jeffery Dewayne Lee, Angela Michelle Chisam, Michael Charles Lee and Jennifer Louise Steele Hutzel and five great-grandchildren. Reverend Lee served churches in Cookeville, TN, McMinnville, TN, Coalinga, CA, Chattanooga, TN and Hohenwald, TN. He started the First Assembly of God Church in Cookeville, TN and First Assembly of God Church in McMinnville. He also served as an evangelist. He also mentored a number of ministers who serve today because of his godly influence. In 1988, Brother Lee was inducted into the Hall of Champions of the Tennessee District Assemblies of God. "Reverend Lee", known affectionately as Brother Lee was a student of the Bible. He was known as the "Walking Bible." In the earlier days of his ministry he would often preach at city parks and draw crowds who were amazed at his command and knowledge of scripture. To start a public meeting, he would often quote an obscure verse in the Bible and sometimes people would accuse him of reciting verses that were not in the Bible. He would quickly provide the chapter and verse. His knowledge of the scripture and strong voice garnered him attention to present Jesus Christ as the Savior for all mankind. He was describe by a life long friend as an "old fashioned preacher who lived what he preached." Arlene Beatty was a true friend during his last days on this Earth. She faithfully assisted the family with Brother Lee's care. She is described by the family as an "angel." Reverend Lee left this world to enter a heaven as a faithful man of God-to his wife, family, and the church that he loved so dearly. Brother Lee can say, "I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, If have kept the faith. Henceforth, there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness" (2 Timothy 4:7-8). Visitation will be at High Funeral Home Tuesday, October 16, 2007 from 5:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Wednesday from 9:00 a.m. until 10:45 a.m. The funeral service was conducted at the First Assembly of God, 112 Club Drive, McMinnville, TN on Wednesday, October 17, 2007 at 11:00 a.m. The burial was at Mt. View Cemetery. Pall bearers were Reverend Wayne Keylon, Tyrone Argo, Reverend Winton Dykes, Ray Talbert, Bobby Barnes, Reverend Terry McCloud, Gary McCormick, and Joe McCormick. Honorary pall bearers were the ministers of the Tennessee District Assemblies of God. Memorial contributions may be made to the First Assembly of God Building Fund, 112 Club Dr., McMinnville, TN 37110.