Dr. Lynda Gwen Lee

On December 14, 2025, Dr. Lynda Gwen Lee passed away peacefully in her home of 40+ years in McComb, MS.

Dr. Lee will be remembered as a pioneering physician, a dedicated public servant, and a woman whose quiet strength, intelligence, and kindness opened doors for those who followed.

Dr. Lynda Gwen Lee was born on June 20, 1940, in Griffin, Georgia, to Robert E. Lee and Gladys Hines Lee. She spent her early years in Georgia and Alabama before her family settled in Laurel, Mississippi, where she graduated with honors from George S. Gardner High School in 1958 as a National Merit Scholarship Finalist.

She attended Millsaps College in Jackson, Mississippi, graduating in 1962, where she was a member of Chi Omega Sorority and earned numerous academic honors. At a time when few women were admitted to medical school, Dr. Lee was accepted-along with only one other woman-into the University of Mississippi Medical School in Jackson. She graduated with honors in 1966, helping pave the way for women in medicine through her achievement, perseverance, and example.

Dr. Lee devoted her career to caring for others, serving as both a physician and administrator for the Mississippi Health Department and providing medical care to rural and underserved communities across the State. She delivered and cared for countless newborns and was deeply respected by her colleagues and beloved by her patients.

Her compassion extended beyond borders through medical mission trips to Central America, where she provided care to children and adults with limited access to healthcare. Known for her gentle spirit, she also had a lifelong love for animals and never turned away a dog or cat in need.

Dr. Lee was an active member of the Rotary Club and volunteered regularly on community projects. She was a devoted member of Centenary Methodist Church, where she faithfully served her congregation.

Dr. Lee is survived by her brother, Ed Lee (Gayle) of Oxford, MS, her two sons – Robert Morris Mitchell of Clinton, MS. and James Gray Mitchell (Kelsey) of Knoxville, TN., and her grandchildren – Taylor Mitchell, Alison Mitchell, Julia Mitchell and Emma Mitchell, Eleanor Mitchell, Marian Mitchell. The family also recognizes her longtime friend and caregiver, Robin Fenn, and dear friend and trusted advisor, Ms. Cynthia Montgomery.

A celebration of her life is being planned and will be announced as soon as possible. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the McComb Animal Shelter.