Verlene Collier Lee

On February 28th 2026, Verlene passed away peacefully at Piedmont Hospital Atlanta with her family by her side. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband James (Jim ) Lee; her parents Roy and Lura Collier; two brothers, Wynsol Collier and Randall Collier; two sisters, Voncile Steward and Vonda Collier as well as three bothers in law, three sisters in law and several nephews.

Verlene is survived by those whose life she deeply impacted. Her children; Robin Lee O’Neal (Chet) and Craig Lee; granddaughter Caitlin O’Neal Balk (Forrest), sister in law Dorris Collier and many nieces and nephews.

Verlene was born and raised in Piedmont Alabama. She attended Jacksonville State University and graduated with a BA degree in 1962. While attending college she met James (Jim) Lee and one month after her graduation on June 15th 1962 they married and moved to Atlanta Georgia where she remained until her death. She was married to Jim for 60 years until his death. Verlene was a devoted homemaker until her children went to college. She was actively involved in their lives, her hands were never still, she was always caring for her family and home. Her family was her most important achievement in life. After her children went to college, she started a career outside the home. She worked for the Georgia State Tag and Title office as an independent public stenographer. She then worked for a Builder for a few years before going to work at Mitchell & McCormick Inc where she held various administration roles until she retired. She enjoyed working and made many dear friends while doing so.

Verlene was a devoted wife, a mother, and grandmother (Grammy). She was the heart of our family, the heart of every gathering, teaching us the value of kindness and resilience. Her love was unconditional and patient. She was our constant source of comfort. We’re grateful for every memory and moment shared. She loved her family, her friends and her church deeply.

Verlene was a pillar of her church community, she lived a life rooted in faith and service. She was a devoted member for LRUMC for 56 years. She was consistently present and active, often serving as a volunteer, leader, teacher, or mentor. She taught Sunday School, she was a member of the choir, she was the financial secretary for many years, volunteered at the food pantry, and vacation bible school. She helped feed the community with weekly Super Suppers and helped to keep the church grounds beautiful. This is just a few of the many church activities she was involved in.

Verlene’s favorite pastimes were gardening, reading and watching the Braves and Bulldogs play. She enjoyed and looked forward to her weekly card games with friends. She played tennis into her early 70’s. She loved to spend time with family and friends. Cooking for her family, shopping with Robin and Caitlin and gardening with Craig made her happy. Her beautiful yard and her knowledge of plants was something she took pride in and loved sharing with anyone interested. She was cherished by all who knew and loved her. She will be forever in our hearts.

In lieu of flowers , donations may be made to Lawrenceville Road United Methodist Church, 3142 Lawrenceville Highway, Tucker, GA 30084