Faithful Missionary
“My thoughts are not your thoughts… For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.”
— Isaiah 55:8; Jeremiah 29:11These verses were beautifully fulfilled in the life of Ada Lee.
Early Life
Ada Hildegarde Jones Lee was born on March 23, 1856, in West Virginia, USA. From her youth, she loved God deeply and desired to live for Him. She raised her family in the fear of God, praying that her children would bring many people to know the Lord.
Her life was a testimony of a mother’s faith and surrender to God’s will.
Missionary Call and Work in India
At the age of 20, Ada followed God’s call and came to India to serve as a missionary among the women of Bengal. She spent five years sharing the Gospel, teaching, and caring for those in need.
In 1881, she married David Hiram Lee, an American missionary also serving in India. Together, they continued their ministry in Calcutta (now Kolkata).
Service in Calcutta
Ada and her husband built schools and training centers to prepare young men and women for Christian service. Their home became a refuge for poor children and for women trapped in social evils such as child marriage and prostitution.
Their compassion and commitment brought light and hope to many lives across Bengal.
A Time of Great Sorrow
In 1899, a terrible tragedy struck. Six of their children, who were studying in Darjeeling, lost their lives in a landslide. Their only surviving son, Wilber, told how they all faced death with strong faith in God, saying they were not afraid because they knew they were going to Heaven.
A few days later, Wilber also went to be with the Lord.
This loss broke Ada’s heart and shook her faith. She wrestled in her spirit, asking why God had allowed such pain after she had dedicated her family to Him. But in her grief, she turned again to God for comfort and strength.
Later, she learned that the story of her children’s faith had spread throughout America, inspiring many people to trust in God. Realizing that her prayers had been answered in God’s own way, she thanked Him for His perfect plan.
A Lasting Legacy
Ada and David Lee continued their missionary work in India until the end of their lives. Their faith and service produced lasting fruit — the Lee Memorial Mission in Calcutta, which continues to bless lives even today.
Ada Lee went to be with the Lord on June 11, 1948, leaving behind a legacy of faith, sacrifice, and trust in God’s higher purpose.
Quick Facts
- Birth: March 23, 1856 – West Virginia, USA
- Death: June 11, 1948 – India
- Mission Field: Calcutta (Kolkata), India
- Mission Work: Founder of Lee Memorial Mission; schools and refuge homes for women and children
- Life Verse: Isaiah 55:8; Jeremiah 29:11