Melanie Cooper Lee

If you ever walked the halls of the Alabama School of Fine Arts, chances are you knew Melanie. For 27 years, she was a welcoming face and a steady presence for students finding their way. Her office wasn’t just a place to check in—it was a refuge. Students often stopped by between classes, not because they had to, but because they wanted to sit, talk, and share a piece of candy from the bowl that was always waiting. She had a gift for listening, for making you feel heard, and for offering just the right mix of encouragement and humor.

As much as Melanie loved her work and the students who became like family to her, nothing compared to the love she carried for her own family. She was a devoted wife, married to her beloved James Alton Lee for 47 years until his passing in 2019. Together, they built a home filled with laughter, tradition, and unconditional love.

Melanie was an extraordinary mother. She gave her children the kind of love that was constant and steady, yet full of warmth and tenderness. Holidays were her favorite time of year, not because of the decorations or gifts, but because they gave her the chance to do what she loved most—cook for her family. Around her table, no one ever left hungry, and no one ever left feeling anything less than cherished. The meals she prepared were more than food—they were her way of showing love, of bringing people together, and of creating memories that her family will hold onto forever.

She is survived by her son Christopher Lee and his wife Jennifer, along with their children Carsyn, Camryn, and Cruz; and her daughter Amanda Lee Reyes and her husband James, along with their children Lisandro, Alejandro, and Catalina. She is also lovingly remembered by her stepchildren: Phillip Lee and his wife Kim, and their children Garret, Tanner, and Marshall; Michele Lee Morris and her husband Philip, and their daughters Laura and Melissa; and Jenni Lee Goolsby and her husband Jim, and their children John Curtis and Isabelle, and three great-grandchildren Eli, Sam, & Mae.

Melanie will be remembered for her generous heart, her joy in caring for others, and the countless ways she gave of herself to both her family and her community. Her legacy will live on in the love she poured into her family, the students she encouraged, and the many lives she brightened with her spirit.

A service celebrating Melanie’s life will be held on September 20, 2025, at 11:00 am at Southern Heritage Funeral Home in Pelham, AL. The family will receive friends from 10:00 am to 11:00 am. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions be made to ASFA, honoring her lifelong devotion to helping others. The link below is to donate to ASFA.

https://www.asfaschool.org/giving/melanie