Obituaries

Jayden Joseph Lee, 22, of Oswego, New York, passed on to be with his beloved father on Sunday, December 15, 2024.

Jayden, who was lovingly called "JJ," was born July 30, 2002, to Richard "Richie" Joseph Lee and Heather Eve (Sweet) Lee. 

The youngest of three boys, Jayden's early life was shaped by his family's multi-generational love of hockey. By the time he couldwalk, he was diligently practicing on the ice and joining the ranks of his brothers, Noah and Addison, and his cousins, in the  Oswego Minor Hockey Association. Excelling in skill and boldness—and with a pinch (or heap) of mischief—he quickly leveled up from the penalty box to forward positions on competitive travel teams. In the recent words of a fellow hockey parent: "He certainly left an impression." We couldn't agree more. He continued to play hockey into adulthood, recently joining a men's league in Charleston, South Carolina.

Jayden also had a deep love of fishing from a young age. He competed in fishing derbies in Upstate New York near his family's summer camp on Black Lake.

But perhaps most importantly, Jayden's life was defined by his unwavering love for animals of all kinds. Whether it was dogs, reptiles, hedgehogs, or even an orphaned fawn he once brought home, his heart overflowed with compassion for helpless creatures.  By the age of 20, Jayden used his entrepreneurial spirit and love of pets to open JDM Kennels and Cicero Fish & Coral Supply; he was also hired at a handful of locations for his expertise.

Nobody could make you smile as quickly as Jayden. Not only was he one of the most loving, loyal, and generous people, but his quick wit and captivating personality drew in more friends than one could ever count. He inherited his compassion for people and animals from his mother, Heather, and he inherited his proclivity for long-winded storytelling from his late father, Richie. He would enthusiastically tell tales of utter mayhem for hours on end if you let him. And we did. Jayden was genuinely and shamelessly a "mama's boy." He found a best friend in his mother, and they were nearly inseparable. Jayden often posted online about his appreciation for her and all she had overcome as a young, widowed mom of three. She was his hero. He also spoke with his Grandma Susie daily, asking for advice and checking in to let her know what he had going on. Jayden's entire extended family meant so much to him.

He recently found the "love of his life" in Cassidy King and welcomed her young son, Legynd, into his heart. They had many plans for the future, especially as they were excitedly preparing to welcome a child together in July 2025. Jayden was over the moon to become a father.

We will forever miss Jayden's animated personality, crazy stories, and warm hugs. Fly high, lil' bro.

Jayden Lee—beloved son/brother/uncle/grandson/nephew—was predeceased by his father Richard Lee, uncle Brian 'Mugs' Lee, paternal grandfather Jack Lee, and maternal great-grandparents Robert & Betty Boysman. He was followed shortly in death by his loving grandmother, Linda Lee, on December 17, 2024. They are now reunited in eternal peace.

Jayden is survived by his mother, Heather Lee (Brad Voss), brothers Noah (Daniella)Lee and Addison Lee, niece Vienna Lee, maternal grandparents Ronald "Grandpa Ronbo" Sweet and Susan Boysman (Dan Batchelor), and many aunts, uncles, and cousins. He is also survived by his cherished dogs, Duchess and Millie, who held a special place in his heart and whom he loved dearly.

Calling hours will be held at the Dowdle Funeral Home in Oswego, NY, on December 28th from 1 PM to 4 PM. Following the services, a gathering for family and friends will take place at LaParilla in Oswego. He will be laid to rest alongside his father at St. Peter's Cemetery at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that you consider supporting the trust fund established to benefit Jayden's unborn child. https://gofund.me/235783b2