June 19, 1940 �" October 26, 2012
Berkeley resident Joann Lee died at the age of 72 on October 26, 2012.
Joann was born on June 19, 1940 in New York City. She graduated first in her class from Mt. Vernon Hospital School of Nursing in New York and went on to have a rich and diverse professional life which included working for the Berkeley Free Clinic, publishing the Friday Drug Paper News that provided safe street drug information to residents and addicts; assisting former Congressman Ron Dellums; and advocating for prisoners' rights with the American Friends Service Committee.
Joann is best known for her compassionate and independent spirit that drew friends and chosen family to her throughout her life. The self-professed Purple Queen and Ms. Lady of the Rainbow was an ardent activist throughout her life, advocating for the most marginalized and being a part of many of those communities.
A celebration of Joann's life is scheduled for Saturday, December 15, from noon to 2:30 p.m. at the Jewish Community Center, 1414 Walnut Street, Berkeley, CA. Donations can be made to the American Friends Service Committee (Pacific Mountain Region, SF), the Berkeley Free Clinic, Our Family Coalition, or a charity of your choosing.