Lee Rountree Marshall

Lee Rountree Marshall, age 68, passed away February 16, 2026, after a brief and unexpected battle with cancer.

Born in Memphis, TN, on July 11, 1957, he was the son of John and Elizabeth (Bet) Marshall. Lee attended White Station School (1st–8th) and graduated from Memphis University School in 1975. After graduating, Lee earned his bachelor's degree from The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, where he was a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity.

Growing up, Lee enjoyed playing basketball and was known to shoot equally well both right- and left-handed. His love for basketball started at Church of the Holy Communion, where he won The Pee-Wee City Championship in 1967. He attended UT All Sports Camp for several years starting at 11 years old, where he was the self-proclaimed "all-around best camper." He finished his basketball career as starting point guard at Memphis University School under Coach Jerry Peters.

Lee was a hard worker and genuinely enjoyed every job he ever had. He began his career at Browning-Ferris Industries (BFI) in 1979, remaining there for 20 years. Following BFI, Lee became President of Jordan Aluminum Extrusion from 2000–2014. His most recent role was serving as President of Champion Promotion. Lee was a natural leader, quick to praise and fair with criticism. He was a true friend to everyone at Champion, making a point to speak to each employee on a daily basis.

Lee had many close friends with whom he loved to travel, go to the horsetrack, and play golf. He was a member of the Memphis Country Club, and the highlight of his week was the Saturday 11:00 and Sunday 12:30 golf games, where he was affectionately known as "Big Fella," among many other nicknames. He looked forward to the annual Wade Hampton golf trip, followed by a weekend in Knoxville for a UT game. Lee was proud of his alma mater, Memphis University School, and diligently served as class representative for many years, most recently organizing their 50th class reunion last fall.

Lee married the love of his life, Cindi Acree Marshall, in 1984. The two complemented each other perfectly: Lee handled the cooking, and Cindi took care of the dishes and anything else in their lives that required an ounce of patience. Lee and Cindi had a large group of friends, and their social life mainly consisted of gathering together to enjoy Lee's cooking. If not at their house, Lee was in charge of bringing the food wherever they went.

Lee was very proud of his two children, Mary Maxwell (Stuart) and Lee Jr. (Abbey). Never missing their sporting events and enjoying many rounds of golf with Lee Jr., he was present and supportive with a quiet and unconditional love.

He loved his role as "Big" to his three grandchildren, Hollis and Bet Maxwell and Annie Marshall. Lee had an amazing way with children-always playful and engaging-and had a special bond with each of them.

Lee was predeceased by his parents, John Clement Marshall and Elizabeth Rountree Marshall; his sister, Mary Elizabeth Marshall; and his brother, John Clement Marshall Jr. (Connie). He leaves behind his wife, Cindi Marshall; daughter, Mary Marshall Maxwell (Stuart); son, Lee Rountree Marshall Jr. (Abbey); grandchildren, Hollis Maxwell, Bet Maxwell, and Annie Marshall; brother, Robert Chesley Marshall (Donna); nephews, Jacey and Bruce Marshall; and many Marshall and Rountree cousins.

The family would like to especially thank Lee's lifelong friend and doctor, Dr. Wiley Robinson, who led them through his final days.

A service honoring his life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at St. John's Episcopal Church followed by a reception in the Parish Hall. Memorials may be made to St. John's Episcopal Church, Memphis University School and PURE Academy.