Shun Ying Lee's Obituary
Shun Ying Lee (aka "Mama Lee") was born in Guangdong, China on April 16, 1928 as the youngest of three. Unfortunately, she became the only surviving child at a young age, as her siblings passed away from illnesses in the early 1930s. She worked hard to support herself and her mother from the time she was in elementary school, as her mother had bound feet, and was unable to walk more than a few feet. When Mama Lee turned 18, she got a job in Hong Kong as a factory worker sewing buttons on to U.S. military uniforms. Fast forward to the late 1950s in Honolulu, Hawaii, that my dad (Hon Lung Lee) requested a "picture bride" from a matchmaker he was referred to in Hong Kong. After viewing several photos sent to him by the matchmaker, he chose several to meet in Hong Kong. Mama Lee was the first "picture bride" he met, and after meeting the rest, he told the matchmaker he would like to marry the very first one he met. Mama Lee finally arrived in Honolulu, Hawaii about 2 years after marrying Papa Lee in Hong Kong when she got her visa. In 1969, she gave birth to her only child, Lisa Lee and was a wonderful mom who sacrificed to provide her with a private school education until Lisa was a freshman in high school. Mama Lee was a strong and independent woman who treasured her friendships and would do anything for her friends. She grew fresh fruits and vegetables in her garden and shared with neighbors, friends, and anyone who asked for some of her fruits and vegetables. Even when her health started declining in her late 80s, Mama Lee's resilience and desire for independence kept her in Honolulu. It was not until she turned 90 that we moved her to Las Vegas to live with us, so we could care for her. Mama Lee passed away on December 2, 2022 in our home and was surrounded by us at her bedside. Many friends and her favorite home health nurse came to say their goodbyes days before she passed, as if she were waiting for them. Mama Lee knew how many loved her and she is now at peace in Heaven with Papa Lee. Mama Lee is survived by her daughter, Lisa. May she rest in love and peace. “Joy Geen” (Chinese Translation: See you again!) “A hui hou! Malama pono!” (Hawaiian Translation: Until we meet again! Take Care!)
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