Marlon Lee, Esteemed Smithfield Educator, Coach, and Civic Leader, Passes Away, Leaving a Legacy of Service and Inspiration
Marlon Lee, Esteemed Smithfield Educator, Coach, and Civic Leader, Passes Away, Leaving a Legacy of Service and Inspiration
Smithfield, NC — The community of Smithfield is mourning the loss of Marlon Lee, a dedicated educator, coach, and civic leader whose recent passing has left a profound void in the hearts of many. Lee’s unwavering commitment to education, athletics, and public service made him a beloved figure in Johnston County and beyond.
A Life Dedicated to Education and Youth Empowerment
Born and raised in Smithfield, Marlon Lee graduated from Smithfield-Selma High School before earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from St. Augustine’s University in Raleigh. His towering presence at 6 feet 11 inches was matched by his larger-than-life dedication to mentoring young people.(smithfieldweeklysun.com, The News & Observer)
Lee began his career at Clayton High School, teaching algebra and business classes. His passion for education extended beyond the classroom as he took on roles as the head coach for both the girls’ varsity volleyball and basketball teams. Under his leadership, the volleyball team achieved a remarkable 21-2 record, clinching the Greater Neuse River Conference title. His basketball teams were perennial playoff contenders, with the 2009-10 squad reaching the N.C. High School Athletic Association East Region finals with a 28-3 record. (The News & Observer)
Recognizing his ability to connect with students, Clayton High School appointed Lee as the Dean of Students. In this role, he focused on dropout prevention and student discipline, emphasizing restorative practices over punitive measures. Lee believed in second chances and worked tirelessly to ensure that every student felt valued and supported. (The News & Observer)
Civic Engagement and Leadership
Lee’s commitment to his community extended into public service. In 2013, he was elected to the Smithfield Town Council, representing District 1. His decade-long tenure was marked by efforts to promote diversity within town departments, particularly the police department, to better reflect the community’s demographics. Lee was known for his hands-on approach, often attending community events and engaging directly with residents to understand their concerns. (Saint Augustine’s University, smithfieldweeklysun.com)
In addition to his council duties, Lee was an active member of several civic organizations, including the Smithfield Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, the Smithfield Progressive Men’s Club, and the Johnston County Citizens Association. His leadership roles in these organizations underscored his dedication to community development and youth mentorship. (smithfieldweeklysun.com)
A Legacy of Service and Inspiration
Marlon Lee’s multifaceted career as an educator, coach, and public servant left an indelible mark on Smithfield. His ability to inspire and uplift those around him was evident in every role he undertook. Whether guiding a student through a challenging math problem, coaching a team to victory, or advocating for community improvements, Lee approached each task with passion and integrity.
As the community reflects on his contributions, many recall his favorite saying: “It’s all about how you treat people.” This philosophy was the cornerstone of his interactions, fostering a culture of respect and empathy throughout Smithfield.(The News & Observer)
Remembering Marlon Lee
Details regarding memorial services for Marlon Lee will be announced by the family in the coming days. In the meantime, the community is encouraged to honor his memory by continuing his legacy of service, mentorship, and compassion.
Marlon Lee’s life serves as a testament to the profound impact one individual can have through dedication, empathy, and unwavering commitment to the betterment of others.