Brenda Gay Lee

Brenda Gay Lee was born on October 13, 1946 in Grayson County, Kentucky. Brenda was the oldest of two children, and was fiercely independent. After leaving home at 16, she spent the majority of her life in Louisville, Kentucky. An active member of her community, Brenda always considered Louisville her home and eventually returned there after living and working in Maryville, Tennessee and Pottstown, Pennsylvania. Brenda is survived by her son, Stephen Leach; daughter, Lisa Wathen; grandchildren, Brooke, Brandon, and Brody Wathen, and Deborah Leach; brother, David Lee (Kim); and nephews, Chris Lee (Millie) and Seth Lee (Tresia). She was preceded in death by her mother, Christine Lee.

Brenda enjoyed cooking, reading mysteries, and taking walks. A nature lover and skilled gardener, she had a unique affection for birds, cats and plants. She was also thrifty by nature and enjoyed spending time with friends hunting for the best deals! Brenda was a devoted mother who fostered a love of learning in her children. She was affectionately known as "Mimi" to her grandchildren, with whom she loved to host sleepovers, do art projects, and bake amazing treats. She taught her children and grandchildren to be curious, courageous and kind. Although she never earned a college degree, her voracious reading allowed her to build an unparalleled wealth of knowledge - some actually useful and some making it possible to crush any competitor in a game of Trivial Pursuit. Brenda was a cherished friend and an active member of a 12-step program, where she sought to give back to the community who gave so much to her. She also traveled extensively with her close friends, sharing experiences and support.

On August 17, 2024, after experiencing a rapid decline in health over the last two years, Brenda took her last breath surrounded by her immediate family. After leaving her home in 2022, she spent time at Belmont Village before moving permanently to Cherokee Park Rehabilitation. Throughout her stay at these facilities, she received great care from the staff, as well as staff from Hosparus Health. Her friends continued to visit and support her throughout. Her son and daughter are especially grateful for those who cared for their mom during this difficult time.

A celebration of Brenda's life will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. on Sunday, October 13th at Lynnhurst United Church of Christ at 4401 Taylor Blvd, Louisville, KY 40215. At Brenda's request, this celebration will be a joyous occasion featuring a silent disco, dessert bar to honor her sweet tooth, and naturally - a gratitude list!

Brenda will be memorialized in a private family ceremony in the Scattering Garden at Cave Hill Cemetery. After the ceremony, friends wishing to visit will find her butterfly nameplate on the owl monument in the garden.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Louisville Free Public Library Foundation (lfplfoundation.org), honoring Brenda's love of reading and her spirit of generosity toward her beloved community.