Lee Earnest lovingly known as “Bootney,” was born on November 20, 1937, in Buena Vista, Georgia, to Lee Earnest Hanes and Amanda Mae Wilkerson. He was the oldest of eleven children: Iwry Weaver, David Weaver, Melvin Weaver, Jeanette McKinnon, Leila Pratt, and Marsha Faye Holt, and was preceded in death by Gerald Weaver, Maurice Weaver Darden, Mary Alice Taylor, and Patricia Holt.

A 1955 graduate of Buena Vista High School, Lee entered the United States Army after graduation, where he completed Signal School as a Communication Specialist, earned the rank of Specialist 3, and received the Good Conduct Medal. After his service, he worked at Albert Plating Company in Brooklyn, New York, and later built a 27-year career with the New York City Transit Authority, serving as a Conductor and Tower Operator before retiring.

In 1961, he met Pecola Youngblood, the love of his life at a party hosted by his cousin Rose Bush. They were married on February 17, 1962. Together they shared 62 beautiful years of marriage and welcomed their only child, Chandra Faye Hanes, the light of their lives.

Lee was the driving force and founder of our family roots, bringing the Owens family history to life through his dedication,and vision, started the Owens' first family reunion in May 1985, held in Atlanta, GA.

Lee was a man of duty, resilience, and quiet strength, qualities that remained evident throughout his life and through the challenges of long-term disability. He leaves to cherish his devoted daughter, Chandra Hanes-Brewton, Son-in-Law, Leon Brewton; grandchildren, Abrie Lee and Mitika Cherrise Hanes, Keven and Daniel Brewton; six great-grandchildren; and a host of loving family and friends. His legacy of love, service, and family devotion will live on forever.