Charles Lee, 87, of Pea Ridge, Arkansas, passed away at his home on June 18, 2026.

Born on July 23, 1938, in Pea Ridge, Charles was the son of Carlos and Maxine Lee. He graduated from Pea Ridge High School in 1956 and spent most of his working life at Daisy Manufacturing, where he retired after 42 years. As a tester, he became known for his skill in repairing air rifles, and many people sought him out to fix theirs.

In 1961, Charles married the love of his life, Judy Sumner. Together, they built a wonderful life in Pea Ridge and raised two children. Their family grew to include four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, all of whom brought him great joy.
Charles was a humble, down-to-earth man who could almost always be found wearing a cap and jeans. He had a deep appreciation for nature and could identify nearly every tree, wildflower, and bird native to Northwest Arkansas. Above all, he loved his family and treasured every opportunity to spend time with them. His favorite pastime was simply "piddlin' around the farm."
One of his favorite traditions was hosting an annual fall weenie roast at his home. Family and friends would gather while Charles, having spent days whittling hot dog sticks and gathering kindling, welcomed everyone with his trademark warmth and hospitality. He excelled in his many roles as a husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, father-in-law, and friend. His grandchildren have fond memories of learning to ride bicycles and, later, to drive cars under his patient guidance.

Charles and Judy shared a love of travel and enjoyed adventures together to Mexico, Hawaii, Yellowstone National Park, the East Coast, and many beautiful beaches. Wherever they went, they created wonderful memories together. He was a lifelong member of Pea Ridge United Methodist Church, where he delighted generations of children by folding and flying paper airplanes made out of church bulletins. He affectionately referred to this as his "paper airplane ministry."

Charles will be remembered for his kindness, his love of the outdoors, and his devotion to his family. His gentle spirit, dry humor, and quiet wisdom will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. He is survived by his beloved wife of 65 years, Judy Lee; his son, John Lee of Pea Ridge; his daughter, Lori Krie and husband Jeff of Fayetteville; his grandchildren, Josh Lee and wife Lacey of Garfield, Phoebe Krie of Prairie Grove, Sophia Krie of Fayetteville, Penelope Krie of Fort Smith; his great-grandchildren, Alaina Lee and Aaron Lee of Garfield; and his sister, Janice Bray and husband Ronald of Pea Ridge.

A Celebration of Life will be held 2:00 p.m. Saturday, June 27, 2026, at Pea Ridge United Methodist Church,1209 N Davis St
Pea Ridge, AR  72751.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to Pea Ridge United Methodist Church.