Obituary of Robert E. Lee, Jr.

Robert Edward Lee Jr., 33, passed away on June 21, 2019. Robert was born in Elmira, New York and grew up in Odessa, New York. He graduated from Odessa Montour High School in 2004. Robert enlisted in the U.S. Army in May of 2007 and was assigned to be a Calvary Scout. Robert was assigned to the prestigious 3rd Squadron, 7th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Infantry Division. As a new Scout, it didn't take long for Robert to earn his "Spurs" as a member of the Apache Company. During his time while stationed at Fort Stewart, Georgia, Robert met his wife, Amber Beckwith-Lee. Amber was the rock of the family during Robert's two deployments in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2008 and 2010. During his two deployments, Robert served as the Second Platoon leader during numerous combat patrols, stability operations, and partner force missions with the Iraqi Army. During his second deployment, Robert was awarded the Army Commendation Medal for action during a combat patrol. Robert assumed the role as the lead mounted gunner during actions against enemy forces. His quick and decisive thinking enabled the platoon to lay effective fire against enemy forces, leading to the capture of two separate weapons caches and four enemy prisoners, including a High Valued Individual. Robert was proud of his military service but even more proud of being a father to his two sons, Robby 10, and Ryan 7. After seven years in service, Robert, Amber, Robby, and Ryan returned to his home town of Odessa, New York to be with family. Robert leaves behind his wife Amber and their two sons Robby and Ryan of Barton, New York. He is survived by his Sister Samantha D. Gray of Rock Stream, NY and his Brother James D. Gray (Sara Gray) and Niece and Nephew Anna and Patrick Gray of Elmira, NY; Step Sister Crystal Rhode (Matthew Rhode) and Nephews Carter and Jackson Rhodes of Cicero, NY; Step Brother Travis Wilcox of Baldwinsville, NY; Robert's Mother Jacqueline Gray (Steve Bannister) of Odessa, NY; Father Lawrence E. Gray (Brenda Edmister) of Dundee, NY; Aunt Pamela Skebey (Thomas Skebey) and Cousins Benjamin and Rebecka Hutcheson of Horseheads, NY; Aunt Debra Vandereems (John Vandereems) and Cousins Jacob and Nathan Vandereems of Watkins Glen, NY; Uncle Jonas Johnson (Kristi Johnson) of Aberdeen, NC; Uncle Trevor Johnson of Horseheads, NY; Uncle Robert Johnson (Katherine Johnson) and Cousins Amanda and James Johnson of Moyock, North Carolina; Uncle Dennis L. Kelley (Michelle Kelley) and Cousins Jillian and Devon Kelley of Mount Pleasant, PA; Grandmother Mary Johnson of Horseheads, NY; Grandmother Patsy L. Kelley of Watkins Glen, NY; Grandfather Dennis G. Kelley of Dundee, NY. He was predeceased by his grandfather, Wilmont "Bud" Johnson (Linda). Robert's memorial service will be held at the Horseheads American Legion (442) on Saturday, July 6, 2019 at 1:00 PM. All are welcome to attend and participate in the celebration of his life. If you would like to contribute, Samantha Gray has established a GoFundMe account under Robert Edward Lee.