"When I was attending Charlotte High School in Punta Gorda during the late 1970's I was in a program that awarded a credit hour for working an hour in the front office each day. Looking back, I realize that "Mrs. Powell" was my first boss and without a doubt, my first mentor in the professional world. She was patient, caring, and kind and made me feel like I was really making a contribution--I just loved working for her. I also remember her great sense of humor; she made it fun to work there. There is no doubt in my mind that her strong work ethic and high expectations helped shape my foundation and impacted my future success in my working career. Please know that she had such a positive impact on so many people's lives! I hope that my fond memories from many years ago are a tiny bright spot in the darkness of your grief, especially during this undoubtedly bittersweet holiday season. Kind Regards, Debbie Sutton Arnold"
In loving memory of
Betty Jo Lees
February 2, 1937 - October 11, 2018
Betty Jo Lees "BJ", 81 of Stephens City, VA formerly of Port Charlotte, FL passed away October 11, 2018.
She was born in Hinton, WVA to the late E. Lucile Eagleton and Howard Harless Huffman on February 2, 1937. Betty Jo graduated from Charlotte County High School and attended E.C. College.
She was preceded in her in death by her husband, William Russell Lees; her brother, Larry Huffman and sister, Louise Flowers.
BJ worked as a secretary for Charlotte Co Public Schools and was a member of CHS Alumni, ABWA, Red Hat Society. She had a passion for sewing, reading, traveling, music, fishing, and golfing.
She is survived by daughters; Karen (Todd) Brown of VA, Lori Lees of NC; sons, Jay Powell of Fl, and Bryan Lees of Ct; 11 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren. She also leaves behind sisters; Joy (Jim) Hunt of FL, Donna (Bill) Cummins of FL, and several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
A Memorial Service will be held on Thursday, November 1st at Unity Church of Peace, 1250 Rutledge, North Port, FL 34288
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Unity Church of Peace.
Tributes
"Dear Karen and Jay, Billie and I cannot attend BJ?s funeral but we want you to know that we share in your sorrow! She was a very special part of our memories of school life and, especially teaching the two of you?it was a privilege having a part in your education! We will always have fond memories of your mother! May you take comfort in knowing we care about your loss! With love, Barbara and Billie Deaton "
"BJ was such a wonderful, caring person. I believe everyone who knew her would agree. I met her as the Principal's Secretary at Charlotte High School in 1969! If you wanted to know anything about the school system, you just asked BJ and if she did not know, she would find out. Such a warm and friendly addition to the whole school system for many, many years and a very dear friend thereafter! My sincere condolences to Karen, Jay and all the family. Cling to all the good memories. She was loved by many and will be missed by all. Rest in Peace my dear friend!"
"I have known BJ for a long time. I worked in the payroll department for the Charlotte County Public Schools when we met. She would be call me and we would work together with whatever the issue was. She was such a gracious lady, so easy to talk with. Sorry to hear of her passing. Prayers for the family."