May 14, 1925 – February 4, 2021

Reverend Lee F. Soxman, Jr., 95, beloved son, father, husband, friend, neighbor and a much-loved minister, passed away Thursday, February 4, 2021 at his home in Lee’s Summit, Mo.

Lee was born in Kansas City, Mo., on May 14, 1925, to Rev. Lee F. and Marguerite Soxman. Lee loved his family, his parents, his wife, Beverly, of 43 years, his children; Carol (Ben) Walstatter, Ellen (Bo Cooley) Gary, David (Julia) Soxman, Mary (Jeff) Weir, Martha (Scott) Smith and stepson, Todd (Diane) Rector; his 11 grandchildren, Debi (Brian), Amy, Connor, Chase, Drew, Matthew (Heather), Jacob, Kyle, Kayla (Derek), Mimi and Quinten; six great-grandchildren; Tyler, Claire, Eldon, Sadie, Declan and Henrietta; brother-in-law, Bill (Evelyn) Kling; sister-in-law, Kathleen (Mike) Smith; and nieces, nephews, cousins and a host of devoted friends. Lee was preceded in death by his parents, an infant son, and step-daughter, Lou Ann Rector.

Lee always credited his folks for guiding his path into Christian ministry. He graduated from William Chrisman High School, William Jewell College, and Perkins School of Theology (SMU) Dallas, to become an ordained Methodist minister. Lee was known as a church builder. He directed complete church building construction, additions and improvements at churches he served. For over 53 years he loved and faithfully served Missouri (West) Conference Methodist congregations, including: Atherton, Garland Ave., Joplin First, Cassville, Marshfield, Mt. Washington (Independence), Liberty, Grandview, K.C. North District Superintendent, Lee’s Summit UMC, and King’s Way, Springfield, Mo.

“Our pastor,

You lead our congregation

by opening God’s word

and living your life

reflecting all we heard”

In retirement, 1992, he served as an ambassador for Epworth Children’s Home of St. Louis and visitation pastor for Lee’s Summit United Methodist Church. Lee enjoyed teaching adult Sunday school. He taught the Renaissance class for 25 years and most recently the Faith-Grace class. He joyfully sang with the Methodist Men of Note and led Bible studies at John Knox Village and Sunday Sojourners group.

Lee was so thankful to be able to stay at home for his daily care given by his wife, grown children and Interim Home Care. The Soxman family wishes to thank nursing aide Machelle Gleason for her excellent, loving care during Lee’s final days.

Due to COVID-19 only a private family service will be held at this time. A Love & Remembrance service will be held at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to American Parkinson’s Disease Association, P.O. Box 97216, Washington, DC 20090-7216; Della Lamb Community Services, 500 Woodland Ave., KCMO 64106, and Grace United Methodist Church, 2400 SE US Highway 50, Lee’s Summit, MO 64063-1051

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