Obituary

Lee Ann Elway McCarthy, our cherished wife, mother, and beloved “LeeLee,” passed away peacefully as the sun set on April 8, 2025. Throughout her courageous battle with pancreatic cancer, she demonstrated incredible composure, unwavering strength, great dignity and her signature style. Surrounded by her devoted husband, Anthony “Tony” McCarthy, she left us peacefully in her home in Lake Forest, California, at age 66.

Born on January 17, 1959, in Port Angeles, Washington, to John “Jack” Elway Sr. and Janet Jordan, Lee Ann was the oldest of three children and often spoke fondly of her childhood as a coach’s daughter. With deep admiration for her parents, she wholeheartedly embraced the core values that are the foundation of the Elway legacy. Lee Ann took great pride in hard work, perseverance, having fun, loyalty, cheering for her father Jack’s teams and her brother John, and showering love on her younger sister, Jana. Known for her passion for excellence, Lee Ann approached everything – whether hosting a victory celebration, special event party, family dinner, or caring for a loved one – with a dedication that consistently yielded remarkable outcomes.

In 1991, Lee Ann married Tony, and together they cultivated a beautiful family, raising their daughter, Kylee, and son, Patrick, in San Jose, California. Her professional journey began in computer technology and marketing, but her creativity flourished when she opened her own floral business, Blooms by the Bay. The passing of her beloved sister, Jana, deeply affected Lee Ann, inspiring her to make a difference in the lives of others. In her early 40s, she became a Registered Nurse, delivering compassionate care in various departments, but most notably, pediatric wards for children with severe disabilities.

When grandchildren first graced the family, Lee Ann eagerly embraced her new role as a grandmother, immediately moving closer to daughter Kylee, son-in-law Serge and what would soon be their family of three children. At the same time, she designed and manufactured a line of women’s robes and became an enthusiastic knitter, immersing herself in a hobby that brought her joy and satisfaction. Lee Ann also enjoyed playing pickleball, traveling with friends, and creating cherished memories during family vacations.

Services are being planned for a later date. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Pashtoon Kasi, the City of Hope and the incredible nurses who provided exemplary and compassionate care for Lee Ann. To all the friends and family who surrounded Lee Ann with love during her most trying moments, your support has meant the world to us. Thank you for being part of her journey.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations in memory of Lee Ann be made to:

City of Hope
Attn: Annual Giving
1500 E. Duarte Road
Duarte, CA 91010

Please indicate on the memo line of the check that the gift is to support “Dr. Kasi’s research.”
Include Lee Ann’s name on a separate piece of paper with the donation.

If you would like City of Hope to send a memorial card to a family member, please also include the name and mailing address of the person you wish to notify.