Israel James Lee

Israel James Lee was the second of four children born to Israel and Arlene Lee on August 26, 1948, in Los Angeles, California. His parents, older sister, Brenda Lee, and nephew Lawrence Ringgold preceded him in death. As a young man, he was aKectionately called ‘James’.

James attended school in Los Angeles, California (CA) where he met and wed his first wife Pauline Carter. From that union, his oldest daughter, Shree was born. Shortly after her birth he was drafted into the military and left for Germany. He proudly served his country in the Army as an SGT (E-5) and functioned as a Tank Commander. He received the following accommodations: National Defense Service Medal, and Sharp Shooter. After returning home he received an honorable discharge for his service to our nation.

James later married Virginia Colbert of Los Angeles, CA. From this union, a son, Israel J. Lee II, and a daughter Rebekah Lee were born. As life happened James realized he needed a savior and gave his life to Jesus. He laid down his old man that flesh in James and changed his life to follow Christ; Israel emerged. The better, healthier, and whole new man he became as a new creature in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17).

While pursuing his career at the Department of Water and Power, Los Angeles, CA, Israel met Lynette Jackson, he was so smitten by her that he committed his heart, married her on December 10, 1999, and gained a son, Tramaine Jackson. Israel and Lynette later relocated to Laveen, Arizona (AZ). in 2004 after reuniting with his eldest daughter, Shree Cartagena (Edwin), and her family. Which turned out to be a ‘bundle’ deal; he adopted Shree’s sister, Shawisi Cartagena, son Jose (Shawisi’s husband), and granddaughter (their child), Esoj.

Israel leaves behind a legacy of unwavering faith and trust in the Lord. In his final moments, he expressed heartfelt repentance, regret, and forgiveness, ensuring peace in his eternal rest. He shared his deep love for each family member and imparted a powerful message about cultivating a personal relationship with Jesus and loving others as they are. Those left to cherish his memory and honor those words are his wife of 25 years Lynette Lee of Goodyear, Arizona (AZ), daughter Shree Cartagena, 56, Goodyear, AZ., Son Kevin Lee, 55 of Los Angeles, CA, stepson Tramaine Jackson, 46, Oceanside, CA, son Israel J. Lee II,36, Phoenix, AZ, daughter Rebekah Lee,35, Oakland CA. Grandchildren from Shree: Dasaron Cartagena,38, Goodyear AZ. Edwin Cartagena, 35, Phoenix, AZ, Faith Gayton, 31, (Xavier 32) of Goodyear, AZ. Grandchildren from Tramaine are Kaylah Jackson,14, and Elias Jackson,13, Fontana, CA. Grandson from Israel is Benicio James Silva-Lee,1, Phoenix, AZ Great Grand Children from Dasaron: Zaniyah,19, Jaida,14, Louv,2, Goodyear AZ. From Edwin: Neveha,14, of Utah, Laia,13, of Texas, Santana,13, Mila-9, Eshe,4, Ace,5 of Southern California. Great Grandchildren from Faith: Somaya,10, and FeFa of Goodyear, AZ. Siblings: Linda WoolFolk, Moreno Valley, CA, and Barbara Lee, Tulsa, Oklahoma. Nieces and nephews: From Brenda- Don Mitchell, James Harbin, Tim Harbin. From Linda- Katrina Ringgold-Saunders. From Barbara-Raymond Dillard, Roxanne, Rachel, and Raquel St. Thomas.

A graveside service with full military honors will be held to celebrate Israel's life at the National Memorial Cemetery of Phoenix, Arizona, on Wednesday, January 15th, at 2:00 PM. All who knew and loved Israel are welcome to attend and pay their respects. 

Have I not commanded you? 

Be Strong and courageous. 

Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, 

for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.

Joshua 1:9