More Lessons from a Bus Driver, An Extraordinary Role Model

Last month I wrote a short article about a bus driver who was a role model for us all, as a human being and a selfless, caring, and highly effective leader. I received a lot of appreciative feedback from readers, who were inspired by Jerry Lee, many of whom said he must have absolutely loved his work as he loved people. Being selfless, genuinely caring about others and their well-being, and helping them feel good about themselves – this is leadership!

Jerry was educated in the local one-room schoolhouse but felt he had to quit so he could go to work and help his family during the Great Depression. This was one of the many loving and unselfish acts that would be repeated throughout his life. As the big brother in the family, he always sacrificed to help and to support his family members. He was a man of faith and his religious beliefs were very important to him.

Joining the army in 1943, he was involved in the fierce fighting on the beaches of Normandy on D-Day.  He achieved the rank of sergeant and was a section leader as part of the Red Ball Express, the predominantly African American and famed trucking company which transported supplies to the Allied forces.  He was told by his commander that he was to receive a Bronze Star medal for his service and acts of courage and bravery, but somehow the medal was never awarded to him. This was one point of sadness and disappointment in his life.  He did however receive a Good Conduct Medal, a European African Middle Eastern Theater Ribbon, and a World War II Victory Ribbon.

In 1948 he married Lillian Horsey, his childhood sweetheart.  To this union four children were born, Vivian, Terry, Jerry Kevin, and Lorie.  It was also in 1948 that he relocated to Long Island and began working at Buckley Country Day School.  He started as a custodian and bus driver picking up many of the school’s students who fondly remember his warmth, kindness, and encouragement.   

Although Jerry never completed his own education, he fully supported and encouraged each of his children in fulfilling their academic goals and aspirations. He proudly examined their diplomas as each one graduated from high school through advanced college degrees.  All four of his children have earned degrees in business, finance, or education and have become teachers or trainers on various levels. Each of his children has been blessed in achieving success in their own lives, thanks to the foundation and example he set for them.

Jerry was a very hard-worker and very dependable employee. He was known to rise before dawn on snowy days to make sure Buckley was plowed and shoveled clean before school opened. He was constantly looking for ways to help others and make their load lighter. Along with working for Buckley, he often had part-time employment, as well, at various other side jobs to financially support his family. He retired in 2007 after working for his beloved Buckley Country Day School just short of 60 years.

Jerry went to his rest in the Lord on September 13, 2020.  He is survived by his four children, their spouses, 7 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren, his youngest sister, and her husband, along with a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins. He has also left to mourn a great many friends and associates who viewed him as a brother.

This is an extraordinary person, leader, and role model. What a wonderful legacy!