Lee R. Motley was born on May 13, 1927, near Vaughn, Arkansas and passed away on February 3, 2023, in Coffeyville, Kansas. His parents Iona (Wilcox) Motley and Ray Motley Lee grew up on his family farm until his service was requested in the US Army Air Force in 1945. Lee went through basic training in Wichita Falls, Texas and served with the Army off the coast of Italy and was honorably discharged in 1947 and continued to his life in Arkansas.
Lee was united in marriage to Eudella McGeehee on May 13, 1948, and they had two sons, James Ray and Jerry Lee.
Lee worked for Kraft Foods Company in the Arkansas after the war until getting a job for Boeing Airlines near Coffeyville and eventually retired from Aptus in 1992.
Lee enjoyed raising cattle and running his farm near his brother Ralph. He was involved in many organizations over the years including the Edna Roundup Club and always enjoyed doing the Big Caney to Pawhuska trail ride for over 30 years during the Cavalcade rodeo. Lee was a friend to all and was a staple at most dance halls in the area.
Lee is preceded in death by his parents, his son, Jerry and his brother, Ralph Motley.
Survivors include his son, Jim Motley of Seattle, Washington, his sister, Thelma Jackson of Bentonville, Arkansas; two nieces, Chris Holt of South Coffeyville, Oklahoma and Marge Motley of Beaverton, Oregon, nephew, Tom Motley of Yukon, Oklahoma.
A Visitation with family present to greet friends from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. will be held on Thursday, February 9, 2023, at David W. Barnes Funeral Home in Coffeyville. A private burial will take place at the Baron Cemetery in Vaughn, Arkansas.
The family suggests memorial contributions can be made to the Emmanuel Southern Baptist Church; these may be left with the funeral home or mailed in care of David W. Barnes Funeral Home 306 N. Cline Rd. Coffeyville, KS 67337.
The family has entrusted funeral arrangements to David W. Barnes Funeral Home in Coffeyville. To leave a condolence for the family online, visit www.dwbfh.com
