Malcolm Lee

John Malcolm Lee, 87, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 3, surrounded by family at his home in Vidor, Texas. He was born on Labor Day, September 5, 1938, in Beaumont, Texas, to Wilson and Laura Winton Lee.

Malcolm graduated from French High School with the Class of 1956, where he met and later married the love of his life, Myrtle Parker. Together they shared 68 years of marriage and raised four children—Laure, Bret, Suzie, and Kristie—in Vidor, Texas. His wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were the center of his world.

A longtime member of Pine Forest Baptist Church, Malcolm was a hardworking and dedicated businessman. He was the owner and operator of ProGas Propane Company for 40 years, a trade he took great pride in. Known for his strong work ethic, he could often be found working on his own propane trucks, never asking of others what he would not do himself.

After retiring, Malcolm enjoyed fishing, tinkering around the house, collecting antique cars, and entertaining family and friends at the beach. His home there became a gathering place where children and grandchildren welcomed friends, and everyone cherished time spent visiting “Mimi and Papa.” Papa especially loved attending his grandchildren’s and great-grandchildren’s birthday celebrations and sporting events and was always their biggest supporter.

He is survived by his loving wife of 68 years, Myrtle Lee of Vidor, Texas; his children, Laure Maida and husband Frank of Beaumont, Texas, Suzie Davis and husband Gene of Vidor, Texas, and Kristie Johnson and husband Troy of Kirvin, Texas; his brother, Wilson Kee Lee Jr. and wife Renée of Kerrville, Texas; seven grandchildren, Mary Wade (Jason), Caroline Whaley (Michael), Jonathan Maida, Britney Cuva (Peter), Bret Harris, Emily White (Dillon), and Jacob Johnson; and ten great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his son, Bret Lee; his parents, Wilson and Laura Lee; his brother, George Lee; and his sister, Teco Johnson.

Malcolm will be remembered for his unwavering devotion to his family, his strong work ethic, and the quiet pride he took in a life well lived.