August 3, 1965 – August 28, 2025

Dawn Cheree Lee of Friendswood, Texas, was called home to the Lord on August 28, 2025, at the age of 60. Dawn faced an aggressive battle with cancer, and while she was always willing to take on that fight, the Lord, in His mercy, chose that the burden was no longer hers to carry.

Dawn was born on August 3, 1965, in Longview, Texas, to Vicky and Bill Smith. She spent most of her childhood in Longview, though Houston was also a second home during some of her younger years. Eventually, she returned to East Texas, where she graduated from Hallsville High School.

In the summer of 1994, Dawn met the love of her life, Bobby, through her cousin John, who was one of his closest friends. What began as a friendship quickly grew into something much deeper, and by January of 1995, the two were joined in marriage, beginning their beautiful life together.

Dawn had many passions, but none greater than being a mother. Her three children— Krystel, Robert, and Christopher—were her heart, her purpose, and her proudest accomplishment. She poured every ounce of love, patience, and strength into raising them, guiding them through life with unwavering devotion. The love she gave her children was the kind most only dream of. A blessing they will treasure forever. Beyond her role as a mother, Dawn’s love for family knew no bounds. Whether it was her immediate family, or even her aunts, uncles, and cousins, family meant everything to her. She treasured every gathering, every bond, and every connection, always reminding those around her that family was the foundation of her life.

Dawn made it no secret of her strong faith and deep connection with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. She carried her faith with her in every step of life, leaning on prayer for guidance, strength, and peace. This unwavering belief gave her courage in her hardest battles and comfort in every moment, right up until her final breath. Her faith not only sustained her, but it also shined as an example to all who knew her, reminding everyone of God’s mercy, grace, and love.

Dawn was wonderfully quirky, spontaneous, and always ready for adventure. She loved jumping right in alongside the boys—whether it was drag racing sport bikes, riding with her motorcycle club, casting a line on a fishing trip, camping (“glamping”) beneath the stars, or proudly taking on anyone who dared (or didn’t dare!) to challenge her in her beloved 2001 White Trans Am. Her bold spirit, zest for life, and playful energy made every moment unforgettable.

She also had a deep passion for her Houston Texans, NASCAR, and WWE wrestling. Later in life, she discovered bingo, which quickly became a favorite hobby. Through every season of life and every interest she pursued, Dawn formed lasting friendships and held onto those she crossed paths with. Even as the years went by, she continued to enjoy keeping up with old friends, always treasuring the connections she had made. Dawn’s life was a living testimony of kindness, strength, and faith. She left an effect on anyone she crossed paths with—whether through a warm smile, a listening ear, or words of encouragement at just the right time. To know her was to feel loved, seen, and cared for.

Dawn was preceded in death by her beloved mother, Vicky Smith, and her brother, Joseph Smith. We find comfort in knowing she is now reunited with her mother’s embrace, along with her grandparents, Eddie and Homer Chastain, JB Smith Jr. and Margie Sue Smith; her uncle, Dan McGarvey; and her cousins Kim, Wendy, Kendra, and Sydney—together again in everlasting peace.

Her legacy is carried on through her father, Bill Smith of Longview, TX; her devoted husband, Bobby Lee of Friendswood, TX; and her three children—Krystel Johnson (Baby Girl) of League City, TX (son-in-law Austin Johnson), Robert Lee of Cypress, TX (daughter- in-law Brooke Lee), and Christopher Lee of Hockley, TX (daughter-in-law Tori Lee). She is also remembered with love by her five grandchildren: Adelynn Johnson, Campbell Lee, Mason Lee, Emmett Lee, and Elliott Lee.

Her memories are also cherished by her sister, Christy Jarrett, and brother-in-law, Ben Jarrett, along with her nephew, Noah Jarrett of Hallsville, TX. She shared a special bond with her maternal aunts and uncles—Peggy McGarvey; Kristi and Bruce McGaugh of Houston, TX; and Brenda and Ron Kube of Warrenton, MO. Dawn is also remembered by her cousins, John and Greg McGarvey, and Olivia Ruiz of Houston, TX, as well as her paternal aunt and uncle, Cindy and Roger Edwards of Pekin, IN.

Though her absence leaves an empty space, her spirit and love remain forever woven into our hearts. While we will miss her deeply, we find comfort in knowing she is safe in the arms of the Lord, reunited with her mother, and that her light will continue to shine through all of us

A memorial service will be held for family and close friends at Jeter Memorial funeral home, on Sept 6th at 11:00am. In lieu of flowers, Dawn has requested donating to the Kelsey research foundation.