Dr Lee Herron

Harrison Lee Herron, age 70, passed away on July 12, 2024 at Emory St. Joseph’s Hospital in Georgia. He was born on March 26, 1954 to Ruby Jean and Daniel Herron in Atlanta, Georgia. Lee was a beloved and devoted husband to Rita for 50 years. They married on December 27, 1974. He was also a faithful son, loving father to his 3 children, wonderful brother, and the best Pop to his 8 grandchildren.

He was a graduate of Peachtree High school, and furthered his education at the University of Georgia where he received a Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine. He was an avid Georgia Bulldogs fan and taught his family to always cheer on the Dawgs! He valued research and higher education. He completed an internship at Cornell University and also studied experimental pathology at Emory University.

Throughout his life, he achieved many accomplishments and ended his 16 year career with the Georgia Research Alliance, GRA, in the spring of 2024, where he had served as the Senior Vice President and University Start-up Advisor. He led GRA’s agricultural technology programs, and also led GRA’s award-winning venture development program for 15 years. Prior to working at GRA, he worked as an entrepreneur and veterinarian. He was known for his passion for scientific and medical research, as well as his brilliant mind.

Lee was also known for his loving kindness and faithfulness to his many family members. He lived his life fully devoted to Rita and his children and grandchildren. He loved youth sports and was committed to always cheering on his family as they played. He was also known for his love for Costco, the Braves, animals, especially goats, and the beach. He loved St. Simons and the family shares many wonderful memories with him there. He had a strong faith and loved God. He will be deeply missed by all of his family, coworkers, and friends.

Lee was preceded in death by his parents, Dan and Ruby Jean, and 2 brothers, Dan and Alan Herron. He is survived by his wife, Rita, and children, Adam, Elizabeth, and Emily, sister, Merry, along with 8 grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

Family, friends, and all those who were touched by Lee are invited to a service at the Roswell Funeral Home on July 18, 2024. Visitation with the family will start at 1 pm, followed by a 2:30 service to honor the life of Lee. The graveside service will follow at Green Lawn Cemetery immediately following the funeral.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made to one of the following charities: Eagle Ranch, https://www.eagleranch.org/give or the Prostate Cancer Foundation, https://www.pcf.org/

Lee’s departure leaves a large void in all of our hearts, but we do know he is at peace with the Lord and his legacy will forever be cherished by all he left behind.