Tommy Lee Fowler Cone

Posted on October 4, 2024

Tommy Lee Fowler Cone went to be with the Lord on Sept. 23, 2024, at the age of 99 and 1/2 years old. Born on Jan. 21, 1925, in Clearwater, Tommy Lee was a child of God – a pillar of faith, compassion and grace throughout her life. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin and dear friend to many. A lifelong Floridian, Tommy Lee was the daughter of Eulee Parker and Stanley “Sunshine” Sylvester Lee. Tommy Lee spent her early years in Perry before attending Stetson University, where she developed a deep passion for all things musical while earning her degree in music. She was living in Perry when she met the love of her life, the future Rev. Leonard Cone. They married on Oct. 5, 1952, and began a life of ministry and service together, impacting countless lives across North Carolina, Georgia, Florida and beyond through their dedication to God’s work. For more than 50 years, Tommy Lee stood faithfully by her Leonard’s side as he led his congregation, embodying the true spirit of a Proverbs 31 woman. Her unwavering support, wisdom and gentle spirit were a source of strength not only to her family, but to the entire church community. Tommy Lee served as a youth director as well as a minister of music and it was music that brought her joy until her final days – whether it was playing the piano, singing, leading the choir or listening to hymns. She was known as a tireless and talented music director and in charge of all choirs. She helped lead mission trips to West Virginia for many years, which proved to be an effective outreach mission for First Baptist Church of Gray, Ga., where she and Leonard served for 24 years. Throughout her life, her talent and love for music provided churches across Florida and Georgia with many wonderful music programs. While Tommy Lee was known to present many music specials, she was especially known for her beautiful Christmas cantatas, often involving all ages. Tommy Lee was a counselor, teacher and friend to all, and always had a smile for everyone she met. Her legacy is carried on by: her daughter-inlaw, Monica Reed Cone of Perry; her sister and brotherin-law, Perry Sue and Charles O’Neal of Tampa; her nephews, Charles (Skippy) O’Neal, III of Kipawa, Canada, Stanley Lee O’Neal of Tampa, and her nieces, Anne Hoover of Tallahassee, Lynda Fowler Quesada of San Jose, Costa Rica, and Jennifer Fowler Hurst of Tampa. She is also survived by her granddaughter, Sarah Caitlin Cone. She was preceded in death by: her husband, John Leonard Cone; her son, John (Sunny) Leonard Cone Jr.; her brother and sister-in-law, Jack and Marian Fowler; and her nephew, Lee Fowler. Her memory will forever be cherished, and her faithfulness to the Lord will remain an inspiration to all who knew her. A celebration of Tommy Lee’s life will be held on Saturday, Oct. 5, at 11a.m. at Beggs Funeral Home Perry Chapel with visitation prior to the service starting at 10 a.m.. Interment will follow at Woodlawn Cemetery in Perry. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Ridgecrest Foundation. Condolences may be left online at beggsfuneral.com. Tommy Lee leaves behind a legacy of faith, love and devotion. May she rest in the eternal peace of the Savior she served so faithfully throughout her life.