Russell H. Lee

In Loving Memory of a Remarkable Life: Russell H. Lee (1939 - 2024)

It is with profound sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Russell Howard Lee, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and distinguished community leader, on Sunday, February 25, 2024, at Piedmont Hospital in Athens, GA. Born on November 15, 1939, in Oconee County, Georgia, to Russell L. Lee and Lois Huff, Russell was a man of integrity, dedication, and immense kindness, whose legacy will forever be cherished.

Russell was blessed with a beautiful and enduring partnership with Marsha Mallard Lee, his wife of 61 years, also from Watkinsville, GA. Together, they built a life full of love, laughter, and shared dreams. He was a proud father to Brad Lee (and wife Vita Slaidins) of San Diego, and Kevin Lee (and wife Denise Collins Lee) of Atlanta; his legacy is further carried on by his adored grandchildren, Markus Lee, Katrina Lee, Harper Lee, Margot Lee, McKenna Collins, and Marin Collins, who will miss him deeply.

A product of Oconee County, Howard as he was known to many, was a graduate of Oconee County High School and The University of Georgia, where he earned a degree in Agriculture Engineering. His professional journey was marked by dedication and excellence, notably at Carolina Power and Light (CP&L), now known as Progress Energy. Over 27 years, he ascended from an entry-level position to Senior Vice President of Operations and Customer Service, demonstrating unwavering commitment and leadership. During his tenure at CP&L, he cultivated profound professional relationships and enduring friendships, leaving a lasting impact on those he collaborated with.

Upon leaving CP&L, Russell and Marsha returned to their roots in Oconee County, Georgia. He then served as the Executive Director of the Oconee County Chamber of Commerce for 11 years, significantly contributing to the community's growth and prosperity until his retirement.

Russell was an active member of First Christian Church of Watkinsville.  He served as Chairman of the Board, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, President of the Christian Men Fellowship and served on the committee to write the Mission Statement of the church.

Russell's contributions were not limited to his professional achievements. A committed volunteer, he was honored with The Boy Scout's of America Silver Beaver Award and a distinguished Rotary Club Award, reflecting his dedication to service and community. His patriotism was evident in his eight years of service in the US Army Reserve, further showcasing his character and commitment to his country.

Preceded in death by his infant son, Mason Carlton Lee and sisters, Juanita Paul of Lexington, Georgia and Annette Carter of Harlem, Georgia. Russell's memory will be forever honored by his family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Services to celebrate Russell's remarkable life will be held at Oconee Chapel, 2370 Hog Mountain Road, (Highway 53)  Watkinsville, GA, on March 30, 2024, at 1 pm. We invite all who knew and loved him to join us in remembering a truly extraordinary man.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Dementia Society of America in Russell's memory, to continue his legacy of generosity and community support.

With heavy hearts, we say goodbye to Russell, a man whose life was a testament to the power of love, the importance of family, and the impact of serving others. His memory will forever be a beacon of light for all who knew him.