Hon. James M. Lee, P.C., LLB,

 

The family of Jim Lee announce, with a heavy heart, the peaceful passing of their father on October 10, 2023 at the QEH surrounded by his adoring family. 

Hon. James M. Lee, P.C., LLB, was a true Prince Edward Island patriot.  He was a man of remarkable accomplishments, a dedicated public servant, a beloved member of the community and most importantly a devoted family man. His life was marked by a profound commitment to the betterment of Prince Edward Island, and his contributions will be remembered for generations to come.

Jim was a devoted husband, and proud father, he was predeceased by his loving wife and partner Patsy (Laurie), and together they raised three children: Laurie-Anne (Jim McInnis) Patti-Sue (Kent MacLean) and Jason (Suzanne). Jim leaves behind 5 grandchildren, Logan and Shamus McInnis, Isabelle and Matthew Lee, and Gabrielle MacLean; and 1 great granddaughter Rose.

Jim was born on March 26, 1937 in Charlottetown one of seven children to James Matthew Lee and Catherine Blanchard. He is predeceased by sisters Eleanor (Vince Shea), Virginia (Dave Younker), Florence (Victor Clow), and brothers Clifford (Lorraine) and Harold (Sue). Jim’s older sister Joyce (Reg Murray) mourns the loss of her younger brother along with lifelong friends Janet and Mike Murphy. Jim leaves behind a large extended family of nieces and nephews. 

Jim’s journey of service and leadership began at an early age. He received his education at Queen's Square School and furthered his skills as an architectural draftsman at the Provincial Vocational School in Charlottetown.

Jim was first and foremost a family man; along with being a respected businessman, parliamentarian, Premier of P.E.I., and a leader in the community. His career in public service spanned an impressive 60 years. He served as a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) in PEI for 11 years, representing the 5th Queens district. During his tenure, he held various significant portfolios, including Minister of Tourism, Parks and Conservation and Minister of Health and Social Services, under J. Angus MacLean.

In 1981 he was sworn in as PEI’s 26th Premier and President of the Executive Council. His government was re-elected in 1982, and he was sworn into the Privy Council of Canada by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II in April 1982.

One of his most notable achievements was the negotiation and establishment of the Atlantic Veterinary College (AVC) at the University of Prince Edward Island in 1983. In 2005, he was the recipient of an Honorary Doctorate from the University of Prince Edward Island for his determination to expand post-secondary education with the establishment of the AVC and his commitment to public service in PEI.

Premier Lee was also instrumental in other significant developments, including the construction of the Delta Convention Center, the amalgamation of the Charlottetown and P.E.I. hospitals, the construction of the Queen Elizabeth Hospital to name a few. 

During his terms in government Premier Lee was PEI’s signatory on the Canadian Constitution during its repatriation in 1982. The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms was signed on April 17, 1982 and is one of our country’s greatest accomplishments.

Jim’s passion for a strong and united Canada was evident through his involvement as the National Vice-Chair and Governor of the Canadian Unity Council

In 1986, Jim was appointed to the Veterans Review and Appeal Board, where he served for 11 years. He later served as Chairman of the Board of Directors of the PEI Workers Compensation Board.

Jim loved Stanhope where he and his family spent summers at their cottage for over 60 years, then later he and Patsy built a year round home. He was Chair of  the North Shore Community Council, and his leadership resulted in several community enhancements, including the creation of the Stanhope Promenade, a new multipurpose community center and a Veterans war memorial.

Jim received numerous honors and awards, including the Queen Elizabeth II Golden Jubilee Medal, the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal and the Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee Medal.

Jim was a member of numerous organizations, such as the Alzheimer Society of PEI, Hillsborough Rotary, Knights of Columbus, PEI Real Estate Board, Canadian Jaycee Senate, Royal Canadian Legion, and many more.

In recent years, Jim served as the Chief Operating Officer for PEI Seniors Homes, leading the organization to provide person-centered care and continuously improve the living experiences of its residents.

Jim was a man of remarkable character, his dedication to community, church, and local volunteerism earned him the respect and admiration of Islanders and Canadians alike.He was defined by many as;  honourable, distinguished, gracious and genuine. He had an incredible gift for connecting with people. When he met people he always made time to engage in meaningful conversations, having a genuine interest in their opinions. With great achievements in his lifetime, he never lost touch with his humble beginnings, growing up on Kensington Rd and always remained modest and thankful.

Jim’s family would like to thank Dr Mitchell Stewart; nurses and doctors of the ICU and Unit 2 at the QEH. Your kindness and attentive caring for our father was exceptional and comforting until his peaceful passing. 

Jim is resting at the Hennessey/Cutcliffe Funeral Home. Visiting hours Sunday, October 15 from 4:00 to 7:00 PM. Funeral to be held Monday, October 16 at 10:30 am at St Pius X Catholic Church. Interment to follow at St Eugenes, Covehead.

 In lieu of flowers, donations to the QEH Foundation would be appreciated.

Please click on the following link to view Funeral Mass : https://www.facebook.com/events/314562744665960/