Extracted from the Smithfield Herald (Smithfield, NC)
Friday, July 12, 1912

One More Confederate Veteran Gone

On July 4, 1912, in Meadow township, Johnston County, the soul of Jesse Lee passed from life into eternity.

The subject of this sketch was born in January, 1834, and departed this life July 4, 1912, making his way on earth nearly 79 years. He grew up in life in Ante-Bellum days and was married to Henrietta Tart who preceded him to the grave about ten years ago. Unto this union ten children were born, nine of whom are still living. During the war between the states he enlisted in the 24th regiment, Company B, and was engaged in several days' fights around Petersburg, Va., until captured and sent to Point Lookout until the Appomattox surrender. After the war was over he returned to his native home and spent the remainder of his life where he was engaged in farming and other interests, which were helpful to build up this community. He was a kind father and affectionate husband, always ready to lend a helping hand to his friends and neighbors. No man could be more loyal to his family than he, and from the first to the last he lived an honest and upright life. He belonged to the old school of character builders, who bore upon himself the stamp of God's approval.

His bearing was quiet and unassuming, yet left its influence for permanent good on the whole community. He was buried on Friday, in the family cemetery in the presence of a large crowd of loved ones and friends, who had come to pay him their last tribute of respect. The Lord has taken unto himself a good and true servant and will be greatly missed here and especially in his home. And yet because of his life of devotion to God and home we shall know in the coming year where to find him if we are faithful. May God's grace be bountifully bestowed upon the bereaved ones.