Lee Beckett

BECKETT - Political activist and loving mother, Lee E. Beckett, went home to be with her Lord on Thursday, November 27, 2008, after a full and joyous family gathering for Thanksgiving. Born in 1932 in NYC, Lee lived a life filled with excitement, laughter and compassion. During the 60's and 70's, long before it was popular, Lee spear-headed political activism in Michigan where she was the committed advocate of the Child Haven Guild, Legislative Pay Reform Movement, National Organization for Women (NOW), women's rights to choose, Title IX, League of Women Voters, Le Leche League International and many other local, state, and national organizations and initiatives. Lee left a lasting impression with everyone she met. Lee's quest for knowledge never ended. In 1987, she pursued a law degree in Washington D.C. at University of DC (formerly Antioch College). In the last 20 years, her creative talents shined through with volumes of poetry and political essays. Playing bridge was always one of Lee's greatest joys where she achieved "Life Master" status in 2004. Lee was also an accomplished tennis player, golfer, and humorist. She will be dearly missed by her family and friends that all have wonderful memories of her over the years. Lee is survived by her twin brother, Benjamin Schwartz and five children: son, John Beckett; daughter-in-law, Susan Beckett; son, Jeff Beckett; daughter-in-law, Connie Beckett; daughter, Laura Beckett; son, Greg Beckett; daughter, Jennifer Beckett; and nine wonderful grandchildren, Hayley, Alicia, Matt, Robby, Jenny, Jaimee, Billy, Mackenzie and Lizzy. Lee believed that life should be celebrated to the fullest. Therefore, please join us in celebrating her life, accomplishments and compassion on Thursday, December 4th at 1 p.m., at Eastminster Presbyterian Church, 1700 Woodward Ave. SE, Grand Rapids, MI. Relatives and friends may meet Lee's family Thursday from 11 a.m. until the time of her service. Contributions in memory of Lee may be made to the Kids First program through St. John's Home (formerly known as Child Haven) http://www.stjohnshome.org/ kidsfirst.aspx by sending a check written to "Kids First" c/o St. John's Home, 2355 Knapp Street, NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49505.