Carolyn Lee Obituary

Carolyn Jane Lee (1948–2026)
Carolyn Jane Lee, a woman whose life was defined by unwavering devotion to her family, passed away peacefully surrounded by those she loved. Her passing marked the end of a courageous 25-year battle with breast cancer—a journey she faced with grace, strength, and a focus on the simple joys of life.

Born in 1948 in Murphy, North Carolina, to Inez Mae and Ira Lee Stalcup, Carolyn’s early years were shaped by the adventure of military life. Alongside her two loving brothers, Donald and Mitchell, she attended schools on various Air Force bases across the country, from Maryland to Virginia.

In 1965, the family settled in Mount Vernon, Washington, where Carolyn would truly plant her roots. After graduating from Mount Vernon High School in 1967 and attending dental hygienist school in Seattle, she returned to Skagit County to stay. She spent her career as a friendly, familiar face in various clerical and medical receptionist roles, but her true life’s work was the love she poured into her family.

Carolyn’s life was filled with the joy of raising "her boys." In 1974, she welcomed her first son, Chad, forming an unbreakable bond that set the foundation for her life as a mother.

In the summer of 1981, Carolyn’s life changed forever when she met Frederick “Fred” Lee while playing softball. Fred was the love of her life, and their marriage was a beautiful partnership of happiness, fun, and a deep spiritual connection. In 1983, they welcomed her second son, Johnathan, further filling her life with purpose.

Carolyn was famously "surrounded by men" her entire life—her two brothers, two sons, and eventually three grandsons. She took it as her mission to teach them how to love unconditionally. As her sons grew, she was their biggest fan, never missing a sports game. Later, she joyfully welcomed her daughters-in-law, Jocelin and Lisa, into the family. 

Her favorite title, however, was "Mimaw." To Carolyn, her grandkids were everything. She cherished every moment with her three grandsons—Jadyn, Lincoln, and Dylan—prioritizing family above all else. Whether she was traveling to wine festivals on the East side of the state, cheering from the stands, or sharing her love of reading, Carolyn lived to celebrate those she held dear.

Carolyn leaves behind a legacy of strength and the reminder to find peace in the simple things. She is survived by her husband, Fred; her brothers, Donald (Colleen) and Mitchell (Linda Bishop); her sons, Chad (Jocelin) and Johnathan (Lisa); and her cherished grandsons, Jadyn, Lincoln, and Dylan

Carolyn will be placed at Hawthorne Memorial Park.  A Celebration of her life will be held at a later date.