Marlon Lee Obituary – Smithfield, North Carolina: Beloved Educator, Coach, Mentor, and Community Leader Passes Away
Smithfield, NC — The community of Smithfield, North Carolina, is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Marlon Lee, a deeply respected educator, mentor, coach, and civic leader who passed away recently. News of his passing has left a profound void in the hearts of all who knew him, from the students he taught to the colleagues he collaborated with and the countless individuals whose lives he touched through his service and guidance.
Marlon Lee’s journey was one defined by purpose, compassion, and unwavering dedication to uplifting others. A proud alumnus of North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, he pursued higher learning with a focus on Marketing and Business Education, a field through which he would go on to shape generations of young minds. His academic path also included studies at St. Augustine’s College in Raleigh, where he became certified to teach and further cultivated his passion for education and leadership.
A product of the Smithfield-Selma High School system, Marlon never forgot his roots. He returned to his hometown with a mission to empower and elevate the youth of Johnston County. His role as a teacher and coach extended well beyond the classroom and athletic fields. To his students, he was a mentor and a father figure—someone who believed in their potential even when they couldn’t see it in themselves.
Smithfield Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.
It is with sadness that our very own Brother Marlon Lee has reached the Golden Shore and joined Chapter Invisible.He was an educator, councilman, father, coach, brother, and friend who fought to make a meaningful difference in the lives of our youth and his community.We send our deepest condolences to the family. He will certainly be missed.
Rest in peace, good brother!
As a member of the local council, Marlon brought integrity, empathy, and vision to every decision he made. He was a tireless advocate for education, youth programs, and community unity. Those who worked with him often recall his ability to connect people, to spark conversations that led to meaningful change, and to inspire civic pride in those around him.
Marlon Lee was also a committed member of his fraternity, where he was remembered as a brother of excellence and service. His passing marks his entry into Chapter Invisible, a sacred tradition signifying a member’s transition from this life to eternal rest.
The impact Marlon had on Smithfield and beyond cannot be overstated. Former students, athletes, and colleagues have taken to social media and community forums to express their grief and honor his memory. Words such as “selfless,” “inspiring,” “loving,” and “transformational” frequently appear in tributes shared by those who had the privilege to know him.
“You were the best coach, teacher, and mentor,” wrote one former student. “You taught us more than the curriculum. You taught us how to live with purpose.”
Marlon Lee was not only a fixture in education and politics—he was a devoted father, brother, and friend. His warmth, wisdom, and infectious spirit will be remembered for generations. He leaves behind a legacy of service, excellence, and community empowerment.
At this time, funeral arrangements and memorial services are pending and will be shared with the public once finalized. The family has asked for continued prayers and support as they navigate this immense loss.
In honoring Marlon’s life, the community recommits itself to the values he championed: education, compassion, unity, and service.
Rest in power, Brother Marlon Lee. Your legacy lives on in every life you’ve touched.