AULANDER, NC - Leslie Morton "Bubba" Lee, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at ECU Health Medical Center in Greenville, NC, surrounded by his loving family. Born on December 21, 1955, in Ahoskie, Hertford County, NC, he was 70 years old at the time of his passing.

Leslie was the cherished son of the late Joseph James Lee and Mary Byrum Lee. Growing up in Trap, Bertie County, he developed a profound love for the outdoors, a passion that defined much of his life. After a brief battle with illness, God called Leslie home to eternal rest.

He dedicated years of his life to working as a farmer and construction worker, embodying the values of hard work and perseverance. Outside of work, Leslie delighted in fishing and hunting, activities he often enjoyed very much. He was also an enthusiastic fan of the Washington Commanders and loved watching football. An avid wrestling fan as well, Leslie found joy in life's simple pleasures, none greater than spending time grilling and enjoying the company of those he loved. "Bubba" will be remembered as a steadfast soul with a heart filled with love for his family and the land he cherished. His legacy continues through those who knew and loved him.

Leslie is preceded in death by his parents, Joseph James Lee and Mary Byrum Lee, and his grandparents, Henry R. & Nettie Raye Suis Byrum and Joseph W. and Gladys E. Miller Lee.

He leaves behind his beloved wife, Jo Ann Scott Lee; his cherished children, Tonya Michelle Cullipher of Stanford, KY, and Ashley Kennedy and husband De Jon of St. Augustine, FL; and his adored grandchildren, Aaron and Christopher Cullipher of Aulander, NC, and Bethany, Dominic, Andre', and Isaac Kennedy of St. Augustine, FL. He will be missed by his brothers, Don Lee and wife Ann of Wake Forest, NC, Tony Lee of Trap, NC, and Robbie Lee of Apopka, FL, along with numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and friends who mourn his passing and celebrate his life.

The family will have a celebration of Leslie's life that will take place on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at 12 noon at Millennium Pentecostal Holiness Church. Family and friends are invited to gather for fellowship and remembrance beginning at 11:00 am, one hour prior to the service, also at the church.

Online condolences may be shared at www.garrettsykesfs.com. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Garrett-Sykes Funeral Service, Ahoskie, NC.