Ora Lee (Pilkington) Kerlee

Ora Lee Pilkington Kerlee, age 81, of Black Mountain, NC, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 24, 2025, at AdventHealth in Fletcher, NC, following a brief illness.

Born on May 30, 1943, in Bryson City, NC, Lee was the daughter of the late Eula Jane Griffen and Kaney Sizemore. She was raised in Old Fort, NC but spent most of her life in Black Mountain, where she became a cherished member of the community. Lee dedicated her life to caregiving as a licensed Physical Therapy Assistant, serving at Highland Farms and later in home health care. Her compassion and commitment touched countless lives, both among her patients and within her own family, caring for those family members that passed before her. Lee had a radiant smile and wonderful laugh and brought warmth wherever she went.

Lee had a fondness for frogs, collecting anything associated with them. She found peace and joy in her yard, beautifying it with plants and flowers. Many afternoons were spent on her front porch, watching birds, squirrels, and rabbits that frequented her surroundings, moments that brought her immense happiness.

Preceding her in death were her parents, her brother Roy ("Butch") Junior Hall, her husband Jerry Lee Kerlee, and her son Stanley Lee Kerlee.

She is survived by her son Rick Kerlee of Greenlee, NC, and her daughter Tammy Kerlee of Black Mountain; her sister Joyce Turner of Summerville, SC; niece Stephanie Haecherl of Mount Pleasant, SC; nephew Matthew Lankford of Weaverville, NC; two granddaughters, Nicole Kerlee of Greenville, SC, and Devon White of Marion, NC; her grandson Brandon Kerlee of Old Fort, NC; and seven great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind cherished friends Roseanne Beaver, Kim Weeks, and Leslie Blunt, as well as her kind neighbors Tori, Jose, Naomi, and Charlene, whose support meant so much to her in recent years.

Lee’s beloved dachshund, Molly, who was her constant companion and shared her daily Starbucks visits for a Frappuccino and a pup cup, will now be lovingly cared for by her daughter, Tammy.

Lee’s life was one of selfless service, laughter, and love. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege to know her. 

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