Lee Mandell was born on August 19, 1946 in Wiesbaden, Germany, and as the son of an Air Force officer, he grew up around the world. Lee received a BS from New York University and an MA and PhD from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He spent most of his career at the NC League of Municipalities where he was the director of information technology and research and chief information officer. Lee enjoyed the fine arts, gardening, lively conversation, and smoking his own fish, which he served at impressive smorgasbords that honored his mother's Danish heritage.
An extraordinarily generous man, Lee went above and beyond to support his family and causes he championed throughout his life. Lee was devoted to his cherished wife of 41 years, Martha Browning-Mandell, who he loved with all his heart. Lee is survived by his children, George Browning (Christine) and Virginia Browning (K Scalf); and his grandchildren, Katherine Browning and Cooper Browning. In addition, he is survived by his family in Maryland including his sister, Layne Bergin Tretow (Chuck Tretow); his niece, Camilla Bergin Rhodes (Duncan Rhodes); and his grandniece, Beatrice Bergin Rhodes. Lee made a lasting impact on all our lives and will be forever missed. We love you, Lee!
The family extends sincere thanks to the staff at UNC Rex Hospital for the compassionate care they provided.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to charities that Lee supported, WCPE Radio, UNC Center for Public Television, Sierra Club, ACLU, National Trust for Historic Preservation, SPCA Wake County, Carolina Farm Stewardship Association, or to a charity of one’s choice.
Services provided by Brown-Wynne, Saint Mary's St.
