Lela Ann Dyess

Lela Ann Sawyer Dyess, affectionately known as “LeeLee,” made her peaceful transition to Heaven on October 3, 2026. She was born in Elba, Alabama, on January 25, 1939, to Lorene and Sam Sawyer. She attended Elba High School and continued her education at Stephens College in St. Louis, Missouri.

On January 24, 1960, Lela Ann married her high school sweetheart, Marlin “Scooter” Dyess. Together, they made their home in Montgomery for more than 60 years and shared a remarkable 66 years of marriage.

Their love story began when they were just 15 years old. With a nickel in his pocket, Marlin invited Lela Ann to take a walk with him to the vending machine outside Elba High School, where he bought her a Coke. That evening, they held hands for the first time. They never truly let go. Their young romance grew into a lifelong love and an unbreakable bond. Lela Ann was the love of Marlin’s life.

Just one month before her passing, Lela Ann was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Marlin. She was also preceded in death by her parents, Lorene and Sam Sawyer, and her great-grandson, William Bennett Shamblin.

She is survived by her daughter, Lori Ann Shamblin (Keith); granddaughter, Dorsey Ann Shamblin; grandson, George Keith Shamblin Jr. (Caleigh); and great-grandsons, Cooper Mac Shamblin and Henry Buck Shamblin, all of Birmingham.

Lela Ann took great delight in her family. Her grandchildren were truly “the apple of her eye.” She loved them deeply and treasured the time she spent with them.

Her faith was an important part of her life. Lela Ann loved the Lord and was a devoted member of First Baptist Church of Montgomery for more than 60 years, serving faithfully in many capacities. For 25 years, she worked with international students through the church’s English as a Second Language program and was a member of the Stepping Stone Sunday School Class.

Lela Ann also had a heart for serving others. She volunteered for many years at Baptist Medical Center, was a member of the Junior League of Montgomery, the Montgomery Garden Club and participated in other civic organizations in her community.

Lela Ann will be remembered for her devotion to her family, her enduring faith, her generous spirit, and the love she shared so freely with those around her. Her life was one of faithfulness—to her Lord, to her family, to her friends, and to the community she called home.

She will be deeply missed, but her family takes comfort in knowing that she and Marlin, separated for only a short time, are together once again. Such a sweet example of “Love for a Lifetime”

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorials be made to the Respite Ministry at FUMC, 2416 West Cloverdale Park, Montgomery, Alabama 36106.