Lee Worthey went peacefully on to be with the Lord on Sunday January 11, 2026, in Albuquerque, New Mexico at the age of 97. Lee was born on December 20,1928 in Rockford, Alabama, to Ike and Addie Wilson.

She graduated from school in 1946 and went on to attend Alabama State Teachers College (today Alabama State) located in Montgomery, where she graduated with a degree in Education. She married David L. Worthey Sr. Oct 31, 1954. In 1959 the couple received an assignment to Kirtland AFB, NM (Albuquerque) where she remained the rest of her life. She taught school at San Jose Parochial School, Albuquerque NM.

As her career progressed, she worked at the Job Corp as a Residential Advisor touching and changing lives for more than 30 years. Lee was always active in the community. She was a Den Mother for the Cub Scouts, giving endlessly to her community. Mrs. Worthey was an entrepreneur and had business selling products at the flea market for over 25 years. She was a long-time member of Faith Tabernacle Pentecostal Church in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Lee was preceded in death by her parents, Ike and Addie Wilson; son David L. Worthey Jr.; and siblings, JD “Poke” Wilson, Isaac Wilson, Cleveland Wilson, Weldon Wilson, Willie D. Wilson, Gladys Powell, Mamie Bimbo, Hester Mitchell, Vester Pate and Dennis Wilson.

Lee leaves to cherish her memory; her daughter, Dianna Worthey of Albuquerque, NM; a sister, Varzell Carter of Pensacola, FL; two brothers, Norman Wilson of Titus, AL and Harmon Wilson of San Francisco, CA; three grandchildren, La Shaundra Lewis and Davon Jones of Albuquerque, NM, Shanae Worthey Lanier and husband Kelyn Lanier of Denver, CO; four great-grandchildren, Tamariz Lewis and Tazhon Lewis of Albuquerque, NM, Zia Lanier and Ivy Lanier of Denver, CO; special nieces, Faye Stewart Henderson of Houston, Texas and Charlotte Mitchell and grand-niece Eunique Mitchell of Albuquerque, NM; Extended family Ms. Jean Baines, Jelani Baines and Carl Clark.

Her loving heart and listening ear can never be replaced.

In the days following her passing, family and friends are invited to pay their respects and celebrate Lee's remarkable life. A Visitation will be held at Strong Thorne Mortuary, located at 1100 Coal Ave SE, Albuquerque, NM, on January 30, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Following this, a Funeral Service will take place at the same location on January 31, 2026, beginning at 11:00 AM and concluding at 12:00 PM.

As we gather to honor Lee Ester Worthey's memory, we reflect on the indelible impact she had on our lives, and we will carry her spirit forward in all that we do.

**Please send all cards, letter and comments etc... to**

Dianna Worthey - (703) 587-4465

6049 Strand Loop

Albuquerque, NM 87106