Roger "Corny" Lee

A Memorial Mass for Roger “Corny” Lee will be celebrated at 11:00 am on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, at St. Peter Catholic Church with Father Tomasz Golab officiating. Inurnment will follow in the St. James Cemetery.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday morning, beginning at 9:00 am until 11:00 am in the St. Peter Church Sanctuary. The Rosary Prayer Service will begin at 10:30 am.

Roger was born on July 25, 1946, in Jefferson Davis County to Roger Cole and Rosalie Kerley Lee. “Corny”, as he was known to his many friends and family, was a proud graduate of Bassfield High School, where he made his mark on the football field as a center and linebacker. His leadership and charisma earned him the title of "Mr. BHS" in 1964, a testament to the respect he garnered among his peers. Following his high school graduation, he pursued further education at Pearl River Junior College, where he honed his skills in welding—an area that would become central to his career. Professionally, Corny was synonymous with dedication and expertise. As a member of the UA Local #715 Pipefitters and Welders Union, he distinguished himself as a Critical Welder, earning multiple certifications throughout his career. He dedicated nearly 25 years of service to Georgia Pacific, where he became known for his hard work and commitment to quality.

Corny's service extended beyond the workplace; as a young man, he answered the call of duty by enlisting in the United States Army, where he proudly served in the Vietnam War and attained the rank of Sergeant. He also remained active in his community, being a devout member of St. Peter Catholic Church, where he served with the Knights of Columbus.

Corny also loved the great outdoors and was an avid hunter and fisherman. In addition, he took great pride in growing a large garden and sharing his vegetables with his children. Corny will also be remembered for the passion he shared with his wife for traveling. Together, they created cherished memories in breathtaking locations, including Niagara Falls, Hoover Dam, the Smoky Mountains, and the Grand Canyon, which held a special place in their hearts.

Corny Lee's legacy is one of love, hard work, and adventure. He will be remembered fondly by all who had the privilege to know him. His spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of those he touched and in the stories that will be shared for generations to come.

Mr. Lee is preceded in death by his parents, Roger and Rosalie Lee; his sisters, Sylvia Rose Moree Wood, Johnnie Ruth White, and his brother, Terry Lee.

His memory will forever be cherished by his beloved wife of 59 years, Janie Kirby Lee; his son, Kirby Cole Lee (Yetta) of Oak Harbor Whidbey Island, WA; his daughters, Kimberly Rose Lee Poole (Charles) of Churchill, MS, Kylie Alexandra Sanderson of Sumrall; his sister, Edna Maria Edwards of Columbia; his brothers, William Douglas Lee of Petal, David Lee of Picayune, Donald Lee of Round Rock, TX and Jasper Lee of New Hebron. The legacy of their pawpaw will also live on through his grandchildren, Shaun Sanderson, Isaac Sanderson, Collin Sanderson, Clara Poole, Sebastian Lee, Lillian Lee, Taryn Lee, and Jocelyn Lee.

Online condolences and a guest registry are available at www.saultersmoorefuneralhome.com.