Mavis Coley Lee

Mavis Coley Lee, 91, of Indian Trail, NC, passed away on January 25, 2024. She was born on December 20, 1932, in Lemon Springs, NC, to the late DeWitt F. Coley and Alma S. Coley. Mavis was a loving, compassionate, and servant-hearted woman of God. She was known for her patience, selflessness, and logical thinking. Mavis had a sweet spirit and a beautiful personality, both inside and out. She had a feisty and witty sense of humor, which endeared her to all who knew her. Mavis was loyal, respectful, and brought joy to the lives of those around her.

Mavis is survived by her daughter, Susan L. Nelson; son, Ronald F. Lee (Kathie); daughter-in-law, Audrey Lee; grandchildren: Christin T. Roddy (Richard), Jackie T. Watson (Thomas), Karen T. Mathieson (James), Allison L. Johnson (Andrew), Kirby Carter, Eleanor Lee, Katie Lee, Kristina L. Owens (Tyler), Eric Philyaw, and Matthew Philyaw (Lety). She also leaves behind sisters: Anne C. Nelson and Linda C. Autry (Larry). Mavis was blessed with 18 great-grandchildren, 2 great-great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, William (Billy) Lee; son, Bryan C. Lee; parents, DeWitt F. Coley and Alma S. Coley; sister, Venie C. Carroll; and brother, Carl G. Coley.

Mavis attended Greenwood Elementary School in Lemon Springs, NC, and graduated from Hugh Morson High School in Raleigh, NC. She was an exceptional student. The rumor is she only received one B in all her years of schooling.

Mavis had a successful career in the insurance industry. She was a dedicated employee, spending many years at Chadwick Insurance, Hackney Insurance, and retiring from Robinson and Stith Insurance. Her colleagues affectionately called her "The Older and Wiser One" because she always had the correct answers and was happy to share her knowledge.

Mavis was a member of Carmel Baptist Church in Matthews, NC, and previously an active member of First Baptist Church in New Bern, NC, for over 40 years. She enjoyed singing in the adult choir, teaching Sunday School, being involved with the WMU, and sharing laughs with the "Sing-A-Lings."

In her free time, Mavis was an accomplished seamstress. She skillfully sewed wedding dresses, prom dresses, Easter dresses, men's suits, curtains, pillows, dolls, quilts, and anything else that was asked of her. She was always there to support her children and grandchildren, attending their games, recitals, concerts, plays, and gymnastics competitions. Mavis also enjoyed watching her husband play in the church softball league. Playing cards with friends and family was another favorite pastime of hers, although there was a rumor that she occasionally "forgot" the rules.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on February 4, 2024, at 5:00 pm in the sanctuary of First Baptist Church in New Bern, NC. An informal visitation will follow the Celebration Service. In memory of Mavis, donations may be made to the music ministry of First Baptist Church, New Bern.

Mavis Coley Lee will be greatly missed by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her love for the Lord was demonstrated through her loving nature, joyful spirit, and kind heart and will forever be remembered.