Mr. Melvin Tolin Lee, 72, of Valley, AL, gained his wings into eternal rest on August 20, 2024 at his residence.

A Celebration of Life Service for Mr. Melvin Tolin Lee will be held on Thursday, August 29, 2023 at 12:00 (noon) ET in the sanctuary of the Goodsell United Methodist Church, 1006 North 6th Avenue, Lanett, AL 36863 with Pastor Kelsey Barnes, Officiant/Eulogist and Rev. Debra Brooks, assisting.

Interment will follow in the Hill Crest Cemetery, 3202 Country Club Road, Lanett, AL 36863.

At the family’s request, there will not be a Public viewing.

Mr. Melvin Tolin Lee entered into eternal rest on Tuesday, August 20, 2024. Melvin was born on May 7, 1952, to the late Jethro Lee Sr. and Dottie Tolin Lee in Langdale, AL. Melvin was preceded in death by two brothers, Oscar James Lee, and Mark Anthony Lee. He is survived by his brothers Jethro Lee, Jr. and Ronald E. Lee.

Melvin attended the former Lanier High School until it closed due to the desegregation of public schools. He was in its first integrated class and a graduate of Lanett High School. Following high school, Melvin attended trade school in Texas. He returned to the City of Lanett and worked for many years in the West Point Pepperell textile mills. Upon retirement, Melvin assisted the Valley Senior Center as a transportation supporter.

Melvin joined the Goodsell United Methodist Church at an early age and served it faithfully until his death. Quiet and unassuming, Melvin was a Goodsell Trustee, member of the male and gospel choirs, United Methodist Men, and Goodsell’s jack-of-all trades. Melvin could, and did, fix anything needing repair without being asked. Goodsell’s grounds were kept immaculate while under his care. Most days the community saw Melvin happily riding the lawn mower or weed whacking the grounds of 6th Avenue and Cherry Drive. His faith and willingness to do his best for the Lord was his life purpose. It made him a radiant and happy Christian. Melvin Lee loved Goodsell.

An avid sports and auto racing fan, Melvin supported Lanett High School football and basketball teams and rarely missed a home or away game. He had a favorite seat in the stadium and often could be heard calling out encouragement to the teams. Alabama was his favorite college team. Roll tide. Most weekends Melvin fellowshipped with the men’s breakfast club at a local restaurant. There he practiced his serious debate skills about the news of the week or community happenings. Melvin loved people and loved being a part of positive things. He never had time for foolishness. Melvin Lee will be missed, and his memories forever cherished by his brothers, nieces and nephews, relatives, and a host of special friends.

Final Arrangements entrusted to M. W. Lee Mortuary.

Interment

Aug

29

Hillcrest Garden Cemetery

Lanett, AL 36863

Celebration of Life Service

Aug

29

Goodsell United Methodist

1007 N 6th Ave
Lanett, AL 36863

12:00 PM