Jimmy Lee Close Sr.

Mr. Jimmy Lee Close Sr. was born in Colquitt, Georgia, in 1946.  He was the son of Henry Close and Renda Dixon.

As a young boy, Jimmy accepted CHRIST as his SAVIOR and was baptized, becoming a member of Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church in Bainbridge, Georgia, under the pastorship of Reverend Sam E. Ealy.  He was educated in the Decatur County Public School System and graduated Hutto High School in 1967.  Upon graduation, Jimmy moved to Newark, New Jersey, and furthered his education by attending trade school.  After his graduation from trade school in the field of plumbing, Jimmy worked hard and eventually became a Master Plumber.

During his high school years, he met the love of his life, the former Lessie Ree Johnson.  On October 12, 1969, Jimmy Lee and Lessie Ree were united in Holy Matrimony.  To this union were born four children:  Jimmy Lee Jr., Xavier, Natasha, and Kregg.

Mr. Jimmy Lee departed his earthly life on Thursday, February 3, 2022, at home.  He was preceded in death by his parents:  Mr. Henry Close and Mr. William and Mrs. Renda Moten Sr.; one brother, Mr. William Moten Jr.; three sisters:  Ruth Reed, Dorothy Jeffery, and Mildred Clemmons; and devoted wife of 48 years, Mrs. Lessie Ree Close.

Mr. Jimmy Lee Close Sr. committed his life tirelessly to his church, his family and his plumbing career.  He leaves to cherish his memories his children:  Jimmy Lee Close Jr. (Elizabeth) of Tampa, FL, Xavier Close (Shelita), Natasha Stepney (David), and Kregg Close (LaShawn), all of Bainbridge, GA; six grandchildren:  LaQuisha Bouie (Quinton Jr.), Keiona Close, Davonte Stepney, Jordyn Close, Zaniyah Bryant, and Jasmyn Close; six great grandchildren: LaReina, Zaylon, Tristan, Ashton, Logan, and Parker; two sisters, Ruthelle Close of Rochester, NY, and Bertha Parrish of Bainbridge, GA; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.