John Lee Pell's Obituary
John Lee Pell was born on January 18, 1945, in Jackson TN, to Ruth and Carroll Lee Pell. His precious sister, Elizabeth, had just turned five. Paternal grandparents were Mary Elizabeth and Elonzo Lee Pell. Maternal grandparents were Elizabeth Crenshaw and John Boyd.
John was a member of Bellevue Baptist Church in his high school and college days. He later joined Highland Heights Methodist. John met his wife Maureen Jenkins in Baton Rouge, LA. She precedes him in death.
He graduated from Memphis State in Physics and Math. His graduate studies were at LSU, where he received a Ph.D. in both Physics and Math. John worked at The Center for Nuclear Studies at Memphis State until it closed. He and Maureen moved to Savannah, GA, where he continued work in Nuclear Studies. When his father became ill, they moved back to Memphis. He taught at Memphis State, MTSU, and Southwest, and was an Adjunct Professor at LeMoyne-Owen.
John Loved to run. He ran seven marathons, and several half marathons. He finished The Road Race Series and was a member of Memphis Runners Track Club. His last race was a Memorial for his friend’s son killed in action in the Middle East. His running days diminished after he suffered a stroke.
He had a passion for music and learned how to play the trombone in 6th grade. He played in the bands at Central High School and Memphis State. He played and was a member of Bartlett Community Concert Band until Covid-19 hit this year.
John joined the Mid-City Gideon’s Camp in 1997, shortly after his beloved wife died. He remained an active member. John was a brilliant man who had a great sense of humor and demonstrated perseverance. He was working out at the Desoto Athletic Club, determined and hopeful up to his death.
John was a longtime faithful of Power Hour at Christ Church. His sister, Elizabeth, accompanied him every week. They were devoted to Christ Church, attending Saturday’s Altar Service with Pastor Chris Carter. John enjoyed listening to Pastor Shane Stanford on the radio when churches were closed during Covid-19. John loved the Lord, worship was very important to him.
He leaves his adored sister, Elizabeth, who he called ‘Betty” all his days. Their mother was a language teacher and their father, a language Professor. They decided “Elizabeth” was too much of a mouthful for a toddler. John and Elizabeth lived together almost 25 years, after his beloved wife’s death. Special thanks to the Staff at Regional One, Elizabeth appreciates their wonderful care for her brother.
A graveside service for Dr. Pell will be held 2:00 p.m., November 2, 2020 at Memorial Park Cemetery, 5668 Poplar Ave., Memphis TN 38119.
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