Lee Tugwell Davis

A bright light went out in Raleigh on August 23 when Lee Armstrong Davis, surrounded by friends and family, took her last breath. For a short 75 years, and just shy of 76, Lee brought kindness and love to everyone who knew her.

Lee Armstrong was born on the Air Force base in Sarasota, Florida, to the late Ben Armstrong and Hilah White Armstrong (later Dorsey). She graduated from East Carolina University in Greenville, NC.

A multitalented artist, Lee won art prizes, was commissioned to make art for corporate headquarters, and shared work with friends and family. While working at a graphic design company, Lee met John Davis, who made her laugh, and they married in 1993.

Lee had a long career at Wake Radiology as a radiologic technologist and, later, as a marketing specialist for the practice. Her artwork graces the walls of several Wake Radiology locations.

Lee loved to travel and meet new people. “Traveling light” was a concept unknown to her; she liked to be prepared for any adventure, and she always was, packing enough clothes, shoes, hats, and other accessories to carry her through any event, anywhere. She had many animal friends, including beloved pets Pogo, Ripo, and Whitby. In her later years, she painted portraits of them and of friends’ pets.

Lee’s greatest love was her family and friends. Her life with John was full of love, laughter, a few tears, much adventure, and the knowledge that they would do whatever they could to support each other.

Lee was preceded in death by her parents, her stepfather Ed Dorsey, and her brother Allen Armstrong. She is survived by her husband John, sister Carla Dennis and her husband Richard, their children Rachel Bolaños, her husband Alex and their daughter, Carmen; Paul Dennis, his wife Adriana, and their daughter Alba; and Robyn Dennis. She is also survived by many Raleigh cousins and family scattered throughout the US.

Lee’s family is grateful for the staff at Transitions LifeCare. They created a peaceful space for Lee and her family to be together during her last days.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Transitions LifeCare (https://www.transitionslifecare.org/), the Duke Lemur Center (https://lemur.duke.edu/), or to a charity of your choice.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, August 29 at 1:00 p.m. at Mitchell Funeral Home, 7209 Glenwood Avenue, in Raleigh. Burial will follow at Raleigh Memorial Park, after which the family will receive friends.

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