Longtime Red Bank resident, former NFL and USFL football player, John Dana Lee, Sr., passed away peacefully on Friday, Aug. 16. He was 71.

“John was born in Oceanport at Fort Monmouth to the late Raymond and Virginia Lee. After years of practice, hard work and determination, John was drafted by the National Football League ( NFL ) as a defensive end for the San Diego Chargers and New England Patriots. He also played in the United States Football League ( USFL ) for the Chicago Blitz and Arizona Wranglers. John eventually was inducted into the Jersey Shore Hall of Fame.”

He is survived by: his former wife, Uva; three children, John D. Lee II, Shea-Ahmi Lee and Brie Ridolfi ( Charlie ); two siblings, Lawrence Lee ( Judy ) and Sharon Lee; three grandchildren, Shaliyah Jenkins, Maha Ridolfi and Benicio Ridolfi; and a host of nieces and nephews and friends.

There will be a visitation on Sunday, August 25, 2024 from 1 to 5 PM and a prayer service on Monday, Aug. 26, at 11 a.m. at the John E. Day Funeral Home 85 Riverside Ave., Red Bank. Interment to follow at Monmouth Memorial Park in Tinton Falls.

— Edited obituary prepared by family via John E. Day Funeral Home

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