Mary Alice Lee

Obituary For Mary Alice Lee

Ms. Mary Alice Lee was born on October 16, 1945, in Lake City, Florida. She was the beloved daughter of Alice Pickford-Davis. She departed this life to be with the Lord on Monday, April 29, 2024, at Broward Health Medical Center.

Mary received her formal education in the schools of Lake City, Florida. She made Fort Lauderdale, Florida her home in 1998, relocating from Syracuse, New York.

She joined New Mount Olive Baptist Church in 2000 and became a dedicated member involved in various church ministries, including hospitality and pastoral care. She sang soprano in the choir and loved to make a joyful noise with her tambourine or a maraca to accompany her singing.

Mary was small in stature, but a force to be reckoned with! She owned and operated the only Black- and- Woman-owned construction company, “Mary Lee and Sons,” in Syracuse, New York. Her exceptional business practices were recognized by industry professionals and she was twice awarded in recognition of her achievements as the only Black/Woman-owned construction company in the area. This was no easy feat for a Black Woman during those times, but her strong will, determination, and business sense guided her success. Mary also held positions with Agway, Consumer Credit Counseling, and Northwest Federated Women’s Club of Broward County.

Mary’s sense of style and fashion set her apart. She modeled for JCPenney and Sears, sold Mary Kay and Avon, and always had a houseful of teen girls looking to her for guidance on applying makeup. She was a fashionista in every sense of the word. She owned and operated “Mary Lee’s Boutique” and sold clothing, handbags, jewelry, hats, and more. She became a personal stylist and shopper for women who admired her sense of style. Some of her top customers were her beloved church choir family.

Of all her qualities, the one that defined her life the most was her selflessness and generosity. Mary had a smile that would brighten anyone’s day and always offered up an encouraging word. She had an exceptional way of fostering deep connections with people, and she made sure people knew how important they were to her. Everyone was special to Mary, and she took care of those around her and in her community. She was an excellent cook and would rise early many days to prepare a hot and nutritious breakfast for seniors she knew didn’t always have enough to eat. She distributed food, entrusted to her by various companies, to members of the community. Mary would not let anyone around her need anything if she could help it and served people that everyone else forgot about.

She was preceded in death by her brothers: David Davis, James T. Davis, John H. Davis, and Louis Martin.

Mary was known as “Mom” to many, but her dearest babies were her sons. Left to cherish precious memories are: Her loving and devoted sons, Rafael Lee (Tiffany) of Gaithersburg, Maryland, and Norgery “Warren” Lee (Julie) of Clay, New York; Special sister friends Hattie Bruce, Alma Owens, Alma Kennedy-Jenkins, and a host of church family, friends, and relatives.