Leesa Lynn McKneely Arce
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Lakeland - Leesa Lynn McKneely Arce, age 64, of Lakeland, FL, passed away on Wednesday,
August 26, 2020, due to chronic illness. Born on May 5, 1956, in Macon, GA, she was
preceded in death by her parents, Frederick Owen McKneely and Lonnie Lee
McKneely. She is survived by her daughter, and only child, Isabella Guevara Arce.
Leesa graduated from Santa Fe High School in Lakeland, FL in 1974. She went on to
attend college at Mercer University, where she was a proud member of Alpha Delta Pi
sorority. After briefly attending the University of Georgia, she graduated from Mercer in
1980, with her Bachelor's degree in English Literature.
During her life Leesa worked as a trust officer for Barnett Bank in Delray Beach, FL, a
Paralegal in Houston, TX, and as museum manager for Pebble Hill Plantation in
Thomasville, GA. She was also a real estate agent for Walter William Realty in
Lakeland, FL. Leesa was a member of the Junior Service League in Thomasville, GA
and also a member of the Nostalgia Antiques Club. She was a member of Southside
Baptist Church in Lakeland, FL and First United Methodist Church in Thomasville, GA.
There was almost nothing that Leesa loved more than Saturday's Down South
"Between the Hedges," cheering on the Georgia Bulldogs (Go Dawgs!). As a former
equestrian, betting on a Triple Crown winner for the Kentucky Derby was an annual
occasion. She shared her talent and love for music with her daughter.
Leesa was a well-read and intelligent southern woman. She loved her family and friends
beyond measure.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Florida Baptist Children's Home, 1015
Sikes Blvd, Lakeland, FL 33815
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.heathfuneralchapel.com.