MOUNT VERNON — Catherine M. Lee, 99, of Mount Vernon, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Friday, September 29, 2023 at 1:14 pm at Mount Vernon Countryside Manor.

She was born on August 19, 1924 in Kewanee, Illinois to Gladys Brady and Marion Linker.   Catherine was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Clifford Linker; daughter-in-law, Teri Albertson; and granddaughter, Karen Albertson.   Catherine married the love of her life, Merton R. Lee in 1957. He passed away at an early age in 1979.

She is survived by her children, Phillip Albertson of Princeville, Illinois, Brian Lee and wife, Carol of Mount Vernon, Kim Willis and husband, Craig of Patoka, Illinois, and Kris Scott and husband, Steve of Jacksonville, Florida; grandchildren, Darren Albertson of Princeville, Heather Leighton and partner, Brian Probst of Edwards, Illinois, Kirby Shergill and husband, Karan of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, James Lee and wife, Ashley of Missoula, Montana, Rachel Vincent and husband, Xavier of Saint Charles, Missouri, David Lee and wife, Samantha of Webster Grove, Missouri, and Dylan Willis and friend, Sydney Hoeschler of Salem, Illinois; and great-grandchildren, Noelle, Nora, Vince, Elowyn, Varenna, Olivia, Mila, Brantley, and Kenzleigh.

Catherine graduated from Toulon, Illinois High School in 1942 and later received an associates degree. She worked much of her adult life in various offices and restaurants. At the age of 74, Catherine moved to Jacksonville, Florida where she lived for 20 years. She attended and was active at Schindler Road Baptist Church for much of that time. In 2018, she returned to Mount Vernon due to failing health and remained here until her passing.

At Catherine’s request, her body will be cremated and a private family service is planned.  Call 618-242-3348 for visit hugheyfh.com for further information.