Foremost a family man and friend to many, Lee loved well with a wry, endearing, or wise comment and his charming smile. Lee and Robin moved as a team, each looking out for the other, most evident during these past two years.
Having a devoted faith, Lee was a member and usher at First Presbyterian, Bristol, TN, and later at First United Methodist Church, Maryville, TN.
In 2021, Lee retired from Electro-Mechanical Corporation and respected co-workers, allowing him more time with Robin and his sons. His loving family treasured beach trips, cooking together, and hosting backyard gatherings with friends, who endured his sad lack of outdoor TVs. Lee was a lover of military history, dogs, and good bourbon. He supported anonymously charitable organizations.
An avid outdoorsman, Lee enjoyed golfing, cycling, hunting, and fishing. A particular highlight were annual trips to South Dakota with his sons and retired Alabama football players who remained unharmed, despite encouragement from former Tennessee teammates and friends.
Lee was so much more than a football player, but it is impossible to understand the fullness of his life without accounting for his athletic leadership and accomplishments.
Growing up in Tucker, GA, Lee began his football career at Shamrock High School. Later, Lee served as the captain of the 1981 University of Tennessee football squad. Additionally, he was a two-time All-Southeastern Conference selection as center. His senior year, Lee was named the Vols’ most outstanding lineman, as well as recipient of the Mickey O’Brien Award, presented to the player who best exemplified courage and determination in overcoming physical obstacles in his career. After graduating, he played in both the Hula Bowl and Senior Bowl, before playing for the Tampa Bay Bandits in the USFL in 1984-85.
Lee was predeceased by his parents, Robert Eugene North, Sr. and Martha Peek North, his oldest brother, Robert ‘Robby’ Eugene North, Jr., and uncle, William Jack Peek. He is survived by his sister, Nancy North Malone with husband, Daniel V. Malone, and brothers and sisters-in law, Roger and Carol Leonard, Renee Leonard Kennedy, and Russell and Kim Leonard, as well as Pat North Thomas. He prayed regularly for special nephews and nieces, his godson and goddaughter, and many cousins.
The family is grateful to Dr. Daniel Ibach and staff at Tennessee Oncology Specialists, and Dr. Howard ‘Skip’ Burris and staff of Sarah Cannon Research Institute. Robin thanks the mighty prayer warriors and friends who walked this journey with their family.
A celebration of Lee’s life is planned for January 5, 2024, at 1pm, in First United Methodist Church, 804 Montvale Station Rd., Maryville, TN. A private interment will follow. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to First United Methodist Church, Maryville, TN and First Presbyterian Church, 701 Florida Ave, Bristol, TN 37620. Online condolences and fond memories may be shared with the North family at www.sherwoodchapel.com.
Sherwood Chapel & Memorial Gardens
3176 Airport Highway
Alcoa, TN 37701
865-970-2955
