Armina “Mina” Lee, age 79, of Newport, Kentucky, originally of Breathitt County, Kentucky, passed away peacefully early Saturday morning at home surrounded by her loved ones. Mina was the matriarch of her family, a staple of the community, a fierce and savvy entrepreneur, Kentucky Colonel, and a true Kentuckian.
Mina is survived by her husband of 51 years, Roger Petersen; her daughter, Bobbie-Jean Lee of Newport; her granddaughter, Armina Wayman of Newport; and her grandsons: Galen Paul Kidwell II (Amber) of Southgate; Cameron Jonathan Kidwell (Madeleine) of Cold Spring; and Linden Vincent Kidwell (Autumn) of Highland Heights. She is also survived by six great-grandchildren, whom she loved dearly and cherished spending time with.
Mina is further survived by her sisters: Linda Carol Raleigh (Jerry Boggs) of Taylor Mill and Barbara Jane Goines (Ben Goines Sr.) of Newport, as well as several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
She was preceded in death by her son, Kirt D. Lee; her mother, Bess Raleigh; her father, Elbert Raleigh Sr.; her brothers, Elbert Raleigh Jr. and Ross Morell Raleigh; and her sisters, Nancy Young and Janet Raleigh.
Her life didn’t start lavishly though. She grew up in an impoverished household with seven siblings and a widowed mother. Despite these challenges, she became a devoted Christian and a deeply moral person, standing firmly by her principles every day. She attributed her success to a lifetime of dedication, prayer, and devotion to her faith.
This unwavering faith inspired a life filled with philanthropy. Whether it was helping others with bills, housing, food, or clothing, Mina devoted herself to helping and uplifting those around her. Her compassion and selflessness left an indelible mark on everyone she touched.
Mina will forever remain in our hearts and, for many, a true part of history.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, March 20, 2025, from 4pm until 7pm at the Fares J. Radel Funeral Home-Newport. Services will follow at 7pm at the funeral home.
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Mindy Irwin says
March 18, 2025 at 5:27 pmYou were like an icon of Newport and I am blessed to say that we have been friends for almost 43 years.. You will be truly missed ❤️ my condolences to your family. Fly high, pretty angel you have earned your wings.
Karen Canter says
March 20, 2025 at 10:24 amMy condolences to mina’s sweet family! May God ease your pain and suffering in your time of need and you find peace in knowing we will see her again. I will deeply miss her untill then. Love Karen C.
Jim & Cindy Lambert says
March 20, 2025 at 9:25 pmIm so sorry .we have been neighbors for a long time. You always had kind things to say. You will be missed.
Malinda Smith says
March 18, 2025 at 7:28 pmThere are some friendships that leave an unforgettable mark on your heart, and my friendship with Mina was one of those rare and beautiful bonds. She had a way of bringing light into every moment, of making even the simplest conversations feel like an adventure. Her laughter—warm, contagious, and full of life—was a gift that made the world a little brighter.
Mina and I shared countless memories filled with joy, mischief, and heartfelt conversations. She understood me in a way that few ever could, always knowing when I needed a laugh, a listening ear, or just her steady presence. Whether we were joking about the little things or facing life’s bigger challenges, she reminded me that friendship is one of life’s greatest treasures.
Though she is no longer here, I will carry her laughter with me always. I will cherish the moments we had, the lessons she taught me, and the love she shared so freely. Mina was more than a friend—she was family in every way that mattered.
Rest easy, my dear friend. Your spirit lives on in the joy you brought to those who were lucky enough to know you.
Wayne Hetteberg says
March 18, 2025 at 10:07 pmMy deepest condolences to the family. Mina will be missed 🙏
Kathy Mospens says
March 19, 2025 at 12:52 amMina I will miss you and our conversations exercising our arms in Indiana
Chanda Flynn says
March 20, 2025 at 2:39 pmMy deepest condolences to the family! I’m sorry I can’t be there in person to pay my final respects and give you all a hug. Mina was good to me, helping me along in my younger years, as she did with so many. A true heart of gold, a woman of wisdom and kindness. I’ll always remember her with fondness. I believe she’s in our true home with Jesus now, so until I see you again, RIP Mina. My love and prayers to you all🙏❤️
Julie Peachy Deaton says
March 20, 2025 at 11:25 pmSo sorry for your loss. Sending love and prayers for the family. May our Lord comfort each of you through the difficult days/times ahead. Peachy & Bob