Oprah Winfrey's Mother, Vernita Lee, Dies on Thanksgiving at Age 83
The world mourns the passing of Vernita Lee, the mother of media mogul and philanthropist Oprah Winfrey. At the age of 83, Lee passed away peacefully in her Milwaukee home on Thanksgiving Day. A spokesperson for Winfrey confirmed the news, stating that private funeral services have already been held to honor Lee’s memory.
A Life Well-Lived: Remembering Vernita Lee
Vernita Lee was a remarkable woman who spent much of her life as a housekeeper in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Despite the challenges she faced, Lee raised her daughter Oprah with love and resilience. Her influence played a significant role in shaping Oprah into the inspiring figure she is today. In an emotional tribute on Instagram, Oprah expressed gratitude for her mother’s dedication, saying, Thank you to my mother Vernita Lee for doing the best she knew and could do in raising me.
Private Farewell and Public Reflection
In a heartfelt message shared with her millions of followers, Oprah extended her appreciation for the kind words and condolences received during this difficult time. She wrote, Thank you all for your kind words and condolences regarding my mother Vernita Lee’s passing. It gives our family great comfort knowing she lived a good life and is now at peace. The private nature of the funeral reflects the close-knit bond within the family and their desire to celebrate Lee’s life quietly.
An Untold Story: Understanding Vernita Lee’s Legacy
Beyond being Oprah’s mother, Vernita Lee had a rich life filled with experiences that shaped her worldview. Born and raised in rural Mississippi, she moved to Milwaukee, where she worked tirelessly as a housemaid to provide for her children. Her strength and determination left an indelible mark on those around her. Lee’s passing invites reflection on Oprah’s early life, her sibling connections, and even her decision not to have children—a choice deeply tied to her upbringing and relationship with her mother.
Milwaukee Remembers a Beloved Resident
Vernita Lee spent most of her life in Milwaukee, where she became a familiar face in the community. Local authorities and residents alike remember her as a compassionate and hardworking individual. On November 22, 2018, Lee passed away in her Lakefront condominium, surrounded by loved ones. Her final resting place is at Wisconsin Memorial Park in Brookfield, Waukesha County.
Oprah Reflects on Emotional Last Days
In recent interviews, Oprah has opened up about the emotional last days she spent with her mother. She recalled moments of vulnerability and connection, emphasizing how important it was to ensure Lee felt loved and supported until the very end. “I told her because my mother has had diabetes… 'You should do whatever your body tells you to do. Nobody’s going to force you to do what you don’t want,' Oprah shared, highlighting the profound respect they had for one another.
A Celebration of Life
Vernita Lee’s legacy extends far beyond her immediate family. As the matriarch of a household that produced one of the most influential women in modern history, she exemplified perseverance and grace under pressure. Her story serves as a reminder of the power of maternal love and its enduring impact across generations. Though she may be gone, her spirit lives on through the countless lives touched by her daughter Oprah.
Final Thoughts
The world bids farewell to Vernita Lee, a woman whose quiet strength and unwavering commitment to her family inspired many. Through her life and death, we are reminded of the importance of cherishing our loved ones and honoring their memories with dignity and love. As Oprah once said, “I feel complete,” a testament to the profound influence her mother had on her journey to becoming the global icon she is today.
