Cora Lee McGee

Mrs. Cora Lee McGee, was born November 23, 1941 to the union of Bernice King and Levi Randolph in Baton Rouge, Louisiana (father and mother preceded her in death). She was also preceded in death by: husband Wendell McGee, son Paul McGee, grandmother Rosa Hoyt King, sister Lillie Mae, brothers Rudolph, and Louis Ray, aunts Gladys Higgins, Cora Smith and Louise Walls, uncles Henry Simmons and Sam King.

Cora accepted Christ at an early age and was baptized at New Sunlight Baptist Church. Cora attended McKinley High School and Capital Area Vocational School for Cosmetology and obtained her license in Baton Rouge. Cora moved to Chicago in 1960 where she married Wendell McGee, Sr. on July 22, 1961. They enjoyed a 56 year union in which five sons were born, Wendell Jr., Lance, Paul, Dwayne and Galen.

Cora started her career working for Spiegel’s and other small companies. She later became an Administrative Assistant for the Cook County States Attorney’s Office. After leaving the States Attorney’s office, she continued her career with the federal government at IRS and SBA. She retired from the SBA where she spent the majority of her career.

Cora loved her family dearly and was proud of her boys. She was a very devoted grandmother and spent a great deal of time with her grandchildren. She always wanted the family together to celebrate holidays. Cora was an avid bowler in leagues for over 40 years. It was a family affair joined by her husband and sons as team members. Cora was a very strong and outspoken woman. For those who knew her well, she definitely was a straight shooter with very little to no filter.

During her illness, she fought a tough battle, determined not to give up until she had nothing left to fight with. Her fate was unknown, so both she and the family wanted to spend as much time as possible together. Her sons were unaware of the tremendous journey ahead. However they showed exceptional strength and were very supportive along with other family members through the entire ordeal. Her will power and incredible strength during her battle was a force to reckon with. What an amazing woman!!! We would like to refer to her as the last Matriarch of the family.

Cora leaves to cherish her memories, four sons: Wendell Jr. (Lee), Lance (Izetta), Dwayne (Jeanyne) and Galen (Karen); Daughter In-Law Alfreda: six granddaughters: Regina, Paulette, Jenaya, Jalynne, Ariel, and Alexis; one grandson Darren White; one great grandson Christopher Rightout; one brother – Lee Eddie Dunbar, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

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