Axelson

Funeral & Cremation Services — Serving families in the Butte, Montana area since 1945

For Immediate Help Call 406-494-4264

In Memory Of

Leighton “Lee” Arthur Jewell, Age 64, of Deer Lodge, Montana

March 6, 1956 – October 20, 2020

Leighton Arthur “Lee” Jewell, 64, died Tuesday, October 20, 2020, at Powell County Memorial Hospital.

He was born March 6, 1956, in Butte, Montana, to Clayton and Marguerite Jewell, a birthday present to his mother.

The family moved to Deer Lodge in 1964. He was educated in Deer Lodge schools, graduating from PCHS in 1974.

Lee attended Mt. Hood Community College in Gresham, Oregon, graduating with a degree in Mortuary Science. He then joined the family business, Jewell Funeral Home, in Deer Lodge, with his father and brother-in-law.

Lee and Joy Hamilton were married May 19, 1979, and later divorced. Together they had three children: Stephanie, Stuart, and John. Lee was very active in the Deer Lodge Community. He was a member of Knights of Columbus Council 1810 in Deer Lodge, serving as funeral secretary for many years, a 4th Degree member of Thomas Francis Meagher Council #585 in Anaconda. Other involvements included the Rialto Theater, Powell County Progress, Trustee of School District #1, and presently Chair of Powell County Medical Center. Lee was elected Powell County Coroner in the 2014 general election after serving as Deputy Coroner for 26 years.

Survivors include his daughter, Stephanie; grandsons, Oscar and Otto; son, Stuart (Erin); grandchildren, Tristan, Jerrika, Alex, Kaiden, and Emily; son, John; grandson, Jason; sister and brother-in-law, Cecilia “Cele” and John Pohle; nephew, Greg Pohle; and family in Billings.

A visitation with viewing will be held from 12 PM to 5 PM on Saturday, October 24, 2020, at Jewell Funeral Home, 601 Missouri Ave, Deer Lodge, MT 59722. A graveside service will be held at 11 AM on Monday, October 26, 2020, at Hillcrest Cemetery, on West Milwaukee Avenue. After the burial, a celebration of his life will be held at The Pen in Deer Lodge.

In honor of Lee Jewell, memorials are suggested to the donor’s choice.

Please visit below to offer a condolence or share a memory of Lee. Axelson Funeral and Cremation Services has been privileged to care for Lee and his family.

Service Schedule

Visitation

12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Saturday October 24, 2020

Jewell Funeral Home

601 Missouri Ave.

Deer Lodge, Montana 59722

View map

Graveside Service

11:00 a.m.

Monday October 26, 2020

Hillcrest Cemetery

W. Milwaukee Ave.

Deer Lodge, Montana 59722

View map

Celebration of His Life

Following the graveside service

Monday October 26, 2020

The Pen

Deer Lodge, Montana 59722

View map

Service Schedule

Visitation

12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Saturday October 24, 2020

Jewell Funeral Home

601 Missouri Ave.

Deer Lodge, Montana 59722

View map

Graveside Service

11:00 a.m.

Monday October 26, 2020

Hillcrest Cemetery

W. Milwaukee Ave.

Deer Lodge, Montana 59722

View map

Celebration of His Life

Following the graveside service

Monday October 26, 2020

The Pen

Deer Lodge, Montana 59722

View map

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Memories

Read the thoughts and memories, then feel free to add your own.

  1. What a great guy your dad was. His passing is a huge loss to Deer Lodge. He supported everything in Deer Lodge and was the spark plug that made it work. He had the greatest sense of humor and could make us laugh at very difficult times in our lives. Our hearts ache for you, and please know you are in our thoughts and prayers.
    Love,
    Mike & Lori Johns

  2. Lee aided many of us as we eased our loved ones from this life to another.
    Rest well in your love of mankind.

  3. My heart aches with this loss. Lee was a pillar to me when I needed one most. He gave me advice that I have passed on to others many times. His life and calling weren’t the easiest to live and a small town has lost a great friend. Rest In Peace my friend.🙏🏻

  4. My heart is heavy with the passing of Lee. He was so much fun in high school and fun in chorus, making you laugh at always the wrong time. RIP my friend you will be missed. Dana Pritchard Held

  5. Lee gave so much to our little community. May he rest in peace knowing he helped so many.

  6. Lee was a good person. I will smile often with the memories. Go Class of 1974!

  7. Lee was a great asset to Deer Lodge and a kind man . He will be missed. My sincerest condolences to the family.

  8. Condolences to the family. Lee was there for us during many of my families hard times.
    He did have a great sense of humor for sure

  9. Lee my friend, I mourn at your passing and thank you for your help after the passing of my parents. My condolences to your family, he was a good man. Much time has passed since our youth, but I will miss your humor and love of life like it was yesterday.

  10. I was in the Boy Scouts with Lee and he was a year ahead of me in high school / the times -the stories -the friendship – what a loss condolence to the family

  11. Lee will be missed by our community. He helped many of us through some of our hardest walks. Always loved his giggle and sense of humor. Thank you Lee for always being there for Deer Lodge. We are surely going to miss you. Love and prayers to his loved ones 💖 Rest In Peace, job well done 💞💞

  12. Lee was a person loved and respected. He will be deeply missed. As so many others he got my family through a lot of bad times. I never saw him without kissing him on top of his head. My heart goes out to the family it is a great loss to the community.

  13. What a loss for the community of Deer Lodge! If you needed something done, Lee was always the go-to guy. Being a friend of Lee’s sister, I had the privilege of watching Lee grow up. So many, many memories will give me a lifetime of smiles! My prayers to the family!

  14. We are so sorry to hear about Lee’s passing. He was a great man with a kind and loving heart. He will be missed by many in our community. Our prayers are with the family right now. May you find strength in all the loving support and memories you will be sharing.

  16. So sorry, this family is an indelible part of Deer Lodge. My heart goes out to them all. My family received support through their services and I see by reading his life summary, that Lee loved serving his community.

  18. The Jewell family and Lee were a part of Deer Lodge for a long time and will be missed, period. Lee was always calm, helpful and a friend. We will miss him. The Wahl Family.

  20. Many fond memories of Lee. He will be truly missed in our community. Thoughts and prayers go out to the family.

  21. It is with great sadness that I learned of the passing of Lee Jewell. On behalf of all of my family, Susan and I send our deepest condolences to Lee’s family and the people of Deer Lodge at this difficult time. I believe that the entire community mourns with you and celebrates the extraordinary life of this remarkable man who devoted his life to serving his community, his faith, for loving and caring for his family and friends. Lee will be missed.

  24. Lee was an incredible guy! I remember the laughter he often brought into a room. An amazing member of the Deer Lodge community that probably did far more than we will ever know. My thoughts are with the family and community. He will be missed.

  25. Lee helped me when we buried my sister Renee. He was a great comfort during a difficult time. He help me with our parents many years later as well. He will greatly missed by all who knew him. My condolences to the family.

  26. What a great man of character and true compassion. He has helped so many through very difficult times. He will be sorely missed. My condolences to all.

  27. Lee was one of kind he was there when you needed him and a good ear to listen and gave such great advice back. Lee was just one amazing person. I know that when he went home they where there with open arms for him. They got themselves a good angle. He will be missed by the town. To the family I send out prayers to you all may your healing make you strong. and the memory of your dad stand out

  28. Lee was a good man who will be so missed in this community. My condolences to his family. Rest in peace Lee.

  29. My sincere condolances to Lee’s family and friends. He was such a kind soul and posessed the gift of a sense of humor. He will be missed by so many that he leaves behind.

  30. Our prayers and thoughts are with all Lee’s family and friends; we were so thankful for Lee’s compassion and help during the times when our loved ones passed. When a friend’s father passed, Lee came to the home and cried right along with all of us; I’ll never forget that memory of his deep care for others in their grief!

  31. Lee was a wonderful caring man. I will always remember him. Goodbye to one of the best classmates ever! God Bless. What a big loss to our community. My prayers for his family.

  32. Lee was a wonderful caring man. I will always remember him. Goodbye to one of the best classmates ever! God Bless. What a big loss to our community. My prayers for his family. I will miss you and your humor.

  33. Rest In Peace my dear friend. Lee had a heart of gold and the best sense of humor. God gave us all in the Deer Lodge community a great man. Without him taking care of my sister Elaine’s arrangements in Spokane and bringing back her ashes, I would have been at a loss. He always had us laughing in High School. I remember him in a pep rally dressed as a baby, sucking on a bottle. Prayer for all of the Jewell family.

  34. I couldn’t have more respect for Lee…he helped us through our parents and both grandparents passing with the utmost respect and courtesy. He was a good man that was the best at what he did. Our sympathy to his family, and the community of Deer Lodge. His passing is a great loss.

  36. He was an awsome help with many members of Joe and my family that passed , I remember one in particular was when my dad passed , he came to the house to get my dads body , we had put our Bob cat in her kennel she was making a ruckus in there , he would hear her look around and finally asked what the blank Is in that cage, so we told him our bobcat ,in a loud voice he said what a bobcat ? in the midst of still trying to be respectful and compassionate to us , he was good at what he did

  37. He was an awsome help with many members of Joe and my family that passed , I remember one in particular was when my dad passed , he came to the house to get my dads body , we had put our Bob cat in her kennel she was making a ruckus in there , he would hear her look around and finally asked what the blank Is in that cage, so we told him our bobcat ,in a loud voice he said what a bobcat ? in the midst of still trying to be respectful and compassionate to us , he was good at what he did Joe and Diane Mavrinac

  38. He was an awsome help with many members of Joe and my family that passed , I remember one in particular was when my dad passed , he came to the house to get my dads body , we had put our Bob cat in her kennel she was making a ruckus in there , he would hear her look around and finally asked what the blank Is in that cage, so we told him our bobcat ,in a loud voice he said what a bobcat ? in the midst of still trying to be respectful and compassionate to us , he was good at what he did Joe and Diane Mavrinac prayers for the family

  39. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Jewel family. May all your good memories ease your loss. Lee was a very good person. He was so kind and helpful to our family through our many losses. I know he loved Deer Lodge. He always spoke so highly of all the different community projects he was involved in. We will miss his great sense of humor! Rest In Peace friend!

  40. I have known Lee since 1979, when he married my sister. As many have said, he was a character. He could be fun to be with. I wish he could’ve valued himself and his health a little more. He was so good at his job, and was a great community man. Even tho we haven’t talked lately, he was always able to make others feel comfortable and could talk to anyone.

  42. I had the honor to know lee. Worked with him had a beer or 20 with him Many funerals of friends and family members and was always very kind, caring and professional I will miss him. I pray the family will be comforted knowing he is with the lord. Many great memories and he was loved by many. Ted

  43. Our sincerest condolences from all of us at the Anaconda-Deer Lodge County Coroner’s Office. Lee served Powell County with pride! He will be greatly missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this trying time.

  44. Lee was one of the best men Iv ever had the honor of meeting. He took care of my babies when they passed away. It really meant alot to me how caring and understanding he was because I was afraid to lay my babies to rest,he made me fill safe to leave them with him.I almost fainted during survive and he took me by the arm and helped me walk. He took care of other close family members too. One thing that I admired about him was his great sense of humor,he could make you smile even in your darkest moments.Deer lodge truly lost a wonderful person.To his family I only new him in my darkest moments and could see what a awsome person he was.I cant even begin to understand the loss you feel.I am so very sorry for your loss.

  45. Lee has been a friend for almost 40 years. We served on Powell County Progress and the Chamber together. He was so active in the community. I will always have good memories of fun times and times where I watched his compassion with so many grieving families. I loved Clayton and Marguerite and know they are enjoying their reunion. God Speed my friend.

  46. I remember Lee well from high school. He was kind to everyone. He came to our house the day my dad died. Even on that sad day we sat in my mom’s kitchen and laughed about high school memories. A truly sincere person with a big heart.

  47. I have know Lee since 1971,as he was a classmate at PCHS. Through the years we have kept in touch by Class Unions, our children attending PCHS together, different committees pertaining to Powell County, and through the loss of loved ones. Lee was always professional when needed but also had a dry humor that always brought laughter to the room. Lee will be missed by all that knew him!

  48. Growing up we call him uncle Lee he was a funny honest man who’s eye could never have the wool pulled over them and he love every one he came in contact anyway he will be miss my heart goes out to his children and grandchildren if you guy’s need anything please reach out to me
    RIP Uncle Lee

  49. I am so sorry for your loss. His was the voice of compassion . . .and a good laugh. On one of his “trips” to Helmville, he was overheard saying, “I really enjoy my trips to Helmville. I should come more often.” As the story goes, it took him time to realize how his comment could be interpreted. Then there was laughter.
    His trips down the Avon road have ended too soon.
    Michelle Geary Holt

  50. Lee, it is now the time for the stars to shine for you. May the love of your loved ones and God in Heaven embrace and fill you with love into eternity. I will not forget you and your families compassion when my brothers Max, and later Lester Organ died. The kind and gentle handling from your father and you was so needed and appreciated. Some of us classmates did not know what we were going to be when we grew up, you my friend, you embraced your calling. With love, Godspeed Lee, let your star shine.

  51. I was very saddened to learn of the death of Lee. I offer my sincere condolences to his family. He was a great guy and I felt privileged to know him. He was a credit to our profession and I will miss him. Rest in Peace Lee.

  52. What seems like a hundred years ago I was assisting a family after a tragedy. I was so grateful for Lee’s wisdom during that whole procedure. A true professional and full of kindness in a most difficult time. Thanks for years of service. Vicki Weida

  53. Lee was a good friend and will be missed. I truly admired his commitment to his work and community. He had a great sense of humor, and was always willing to assist. Rest In Peace my friend

  54. My prayers are with Lee’s family as they walk through this difficult time. I remember when Lee moved to Deer Lodge not long after we did. We went to St Mary’s School together. I remember a few of the crazy things he told us about how his dad did his work and how I actually believed him! I am sure he will be missed by all those in Deer Lodge.

  55. We were saddened to hear of Lee’s passing and send our love and sympathy to all of his family. There will be a big void in the Deer Lodge community. God bless and keep you

  56. My deepest condolences to Lee’s family. I am shocked and saddened to hear of his passing. No one will ever fill the void he has left behind.

    To you, his family, may God grant you peace and comfort during this difficult time. I pray that people will come alongside and bless you as much as Lee blessed all of us whom he touched, in both life, and through the loss of our loved ones.

    Many have attested to his special gifts of comfort and humor, and the countless lives that he touched. I had to chuckle when someone mentioned him dressed up like a baby sucking on a pacifier. (He acted like he actually enjoyed sucking on the thing!) The occasion was for Powell Guard initiation. And yes, we were paraded in front of the entire student body. He most certainly took the rest of our eyes off of our own self-consciousness about wearing ridiculous “costumes” by absolutely stealing “the show” with his outfit! (I think he actually had fun with it.)

    Lee’s presence provided consolation to our family during difficult times as well. I think the entire County feels the loss of his passing. I hope these small tributes to Lee’s life will be balm to your aching hearts.

    Linda J. Quigley

  57. Lee will be missed not just by family and friends but by a whole community. He was a rock that helped many of us through the worst times of our lives. Compassionate for sure but also someone you could count on to take the lead when times were tough. I believe this was because of true affection for those who’s lives he touched. Lee had that rarest of talents to use humor to break the tension while still being dignified. My heart and prayers goes out to the Jewel family during this sad time.

  58. Rest In Peace, my old friend. We went through grade school together and then made the big transition to Junior High, then on to high school. Lee was always planning something, often with the help of his beloved parents. His folks were salt of the earth and they passed that beautiful quality to Lee. Always in the thick of it, he was involved in so many enterprises concerning our little town, it will be hard to imagine a committee or board without him. To his family, our deepest condolences, your loss will be hard to bear. Hopefully we can be the rock for you that he was for this town and this county. With love and respect, Jim & Ada Lee

  59. I am so sorry to hear the news about Lee. I served as the Pastor of the First Presbyterian Church in Deer Lodge from 1988-1993, and Lee and I worked together a *lot* – not only for services related to my own parishioner families but for other families outside of our immediate congregation. I was often one of his “go-to” clergy for funerals, and on every occasion, I witnessed Lee’s exceptional level of caring and compassion. I am honored and proud to have known him. He will be – IS – dearly missed. Rest well and in peace, friend.

  60. I am so sorry to hear the news of Lee’s passing. He was such a compassionate person. I remember when my husband passed away and we brought him home. Lee was there and helped us handle everything. Living in Nebraska I had to visit him on the phone a lot getting things ready so when we arrived everything was just like he promised. I would like to send my thoughts and prayers to his family. 🙏 He will be missed!!

  61. Lee was a good friend to our family in good times and sad times. When I look back at our times together his laugh reins supreme. Blessings to Lee’s family you have been in our thoughts and prayers.

  62. Lee was such a vivacious and wonderful person. He will be missed!! Rip Lee Jewel!! We will see you on the other side!!

  63. My well wishes and prayers are with the family at this time.

    Lee was a wonderful man. He had a robust laugh and an even greater sense of humor. Lee took my father from our house in Avon when he passed. Lee’s sense of humor was calming in our darkest hours. Lee made jokes fitting for my father’s personality and made us all feel a little warmth in a very hard time.

    I’ll never forget in high school heading over for lunch at his house, and Lee making a joke while taking the elevator down. Lee said, “going down…. care to join me”, and at the time it was both scary and funny. He always knew just what to say to get you cracked up. While I struggle with the words to say, I know I can proudly say it was an honor to be by his side in my time of need and as a friend to the family. His daughter Stephanie a very close friend and the whole family are truly wonderful people.

    His legacy will forever live on. Love you all.

    K. Farrow

  64. May you rest in peace Lee ! We admired your poise and strength while getting us through the most horrendous loss in our family. Thank you. You are now with all the loved ones that went before you. God is Great! Jim & DeeDee Lane and Amy, Jace and Ryan Mannix

  66. My condolences to Lee’s family and to all who have known him. We must now share the sorrow of your passing. Looking elsewhere to find the consolation and comforting you dedicated your life to providing. You helped us through so much. Again I thank you. Sleep well my friend. Leon and Susie

  67. I would like to add to all these beautiful words that Lee and Joy added 3 wonderful children, Stepanie- who cared so we’ll for my mother, Carol Aker, Stuart who was such a good friend to my daughter and now a friend of mine and Jace who was a great neighbor and also a friend to Tom and me. His children added many wonderful grandchildren to our community. I love them as much as I loved and still love Joy.
    To you, personally Lee. I enjoyed working with you as I did when a member of the hospital staff. I enjoyed being your friend and I enjoyed your wisdom and humor. I’ll remember you always!
    Love, Theresa Aker Yockim.

  68. Hi Cele and family, sorry to get the news about Lee.. Muck water under our bridges

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