ABOUT

Jacqueline Agnes Cooper Lee

The earthly journey of Jacqueline Agnes Cooper Lee commenced on January 26, 1943 in Baltimore, Maryland, as the cherished daughter of John and Mary Agnes Cooper, raised in a home grounded in the promise of Christ and the power of family. Jacqueline spent her formative years in Baltimore, attending the historic Saint Frances Academy (America’s oldest continuously operating Black Catholic high school) before graduating from Edmondson High School. Even in her youth, she bore witness to the power of civic engagement through the faithful example of her parents. This early formation catalyzed a service-first ethos that would define her life’s work and heartfelt passion. Whether caring for those in need at Spring Grove Hospital Center or safeguarding her community as a deputy sheriff in Harford County, she was divinely destined to be a light unto others.

A lifelong servant of God’s people, Jacqueline was a devoted member of St. Peter Claver Parish, where she met and entered into holy matrimony with her high school sweetheart and beloved husband of 56 years, Philip M. Lee Sr. Within her church, she offered her presence, her wisdom, and her encouragement to uplift and strengthen all who crossed her path. Anyone who met her, whether in passing or for a sacred moment, left with their load lightened, perspective changed, and soul encouraged.

She was a family-first woman, fully committed to her children and steadfast in unconditional love to her husband and best friend. Her example stands as a monument to all around her who learned love is stronger than pride and commitment endures for generations. After providing faithful care for her mother until the age of 107 and committed love for her husband until his transition, she relocated to Wisconsin for a new chapter. Jacqueline joined Lumen Christi Parish in Mequon where she continued as a faithful laborer in the Lord’s vineyard, ever ready to serve, ever willing to give. Her love for children was especially evident in her dedicated service to the parish’s summer youth ministries, where she poured her time, talent, and treasure into supporting the next generation.

Jacqueline’s life was marked not only by service, but by an abiding joy that radiated through her love of travel, fellowship, and family. She traversed the globe alongside her loved ones, from the serene coasts of Saint Lucia to the timeless boulevards of Paris. She created revered traditions, most notably her treasured Summer Camp for her grandchildren Miranda and John IV, where time paused for a few fleeting weeks and imagination, discovery, and love knew no bounds. Her laughter, unmistakable and infectious, filled rooms and lifted spirits, becoming a balm even in life’s most difficult seasons. Her contagious smile was a lamp unto all she came in contact with. Affectionately known as “Mama Lee,” she was a woman of radiant and effervescent persona, adorned often in exquisite attire, marked by her bold yet graceful style, and crowned with silver tresses that reflected the light she brought to every room, heart, and life. She embodied a rare convivial spirit that carried both conviction and compassion.

The heavenly journey of Jacqueline commenced on March 27, 2026 in the year of our Lord. Though her earthly chapter has concluded, her witness of light and love continues to permeate the lives of all who knew her. The torch has been faithfully passed to her children, grandchildren, and the extended family she graciously invited in, each bearing forward her legacy of faith, service, and joy. The Fund for Light is designed to carry forth her torch and legacy, continuing to shine brightly in the world she graced.