Estell Fells Lee was born September 14, 1931, in Coatesville, Pennsylvania. She was the daughter of the late Rev. John A. Fells, Sr. and Estell C. Mines Fells.
Estell received her early education from the historic James Adams School in Coatesville. After graduating from S. Horace Scott Senior High School, she became employed by the Coatesville Veterans Administration Medical Center (VA) in dietetic service as a cook and remained there until her retirement.
Estell accepted Christ and was baptized at an early age. In her adult years, Estell was a faithful member of Tabernacle Baptist Church in Coatesville and served in various areas at the church.
Her passion was music. As a gifted pianist and choral director, she used her musical talent as pianist and director of the young adult choir at Tabernacle Baptist Church and later at Second Baptist Church. In addition, Estell was the founder, director and pianist of the Coatesville Community Choir which performed concerts in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware. The choir was known for its annual Christmas and spring concerts where Estell led the choir in excerpts from Handel’s Messiah and in show tunes.
Estell was pianist for the Delaware, Chester and Adjoining Counties Baptist Sunday School Union during the tenure of both her father, Rev. J. A. Fells, Sr. and her husband, Rev. Earl R. Lee, as Presidents. She also served as the pianist and sometimes soloist for J. Emmett Hunt Funeral Home for several years after her retirement from the VA.
Sewing and cooking were both an integral part of Estell’s life. During her active years, many of the clothes in her wardrobe were made by her using her mother’s antique sewing machine. She was also known for her delicious gingerbread and apple dumplings.
Estell was called home to be with the Lord December. 11, 2018, at 87 years of age. She was preceded in death by her husband, Rev. Earl R. Lee, and seven siblings: Kathleen, Joanna, Hanford, Marie, John, Daisey and Bernice.
She is survived by her loving daughter, Carla Marie Johnson of Coatesville, PA, devoted nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Homegoing Services will be held at 11 AM on Tuesday, December 18, 2018 at Tabernacle Baptist Church, 819 Coates Street, Coatesville PA. A viewing will be held from 9 AM until 10:45 AM.
Interment will be held in Rolling Green Memorial Park in West Chester.
Condolences for the family can be shared here on the guest book. Flowers can be sent to the church on the day of the service.
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