Maria Lees, 89, of Bethlehem, died June 11, 2025, at Gracedale Nursing Home, Upper Nazareth Township. She was the wife of the late George Lees, who died Aug. 24, 2013. Maria was born in Wilson Borough Aug. 16, 1935, to the late Gus and Stella (Vlahakis) Karukas. She dedicated her life to her family, her home, and caring for her son Jimmy. Maria was a member of St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral Church, Bethlehem.

She is survived by children: Stephanie Drake of Catasauqua and James Lees of Upper Nazareth Township; grandchildren: Jennifer Drake, Angela McCormick, Christopher McCormick; great-grandchildren: Christian Hollinger, Kaleb Gilbert. She was predeceased by her siblings: George Karukas, Georgia Annos, Barney Karukas and Eva Lambert.

Contributions may be made to her family, care of the Connell Funeral Home, Inc., 245 East Broad Street, Bethlehem, PA 18018.