Nathan C. Lee

The Honorable Nathan C. Lee, resident of Hopewell, VA, passed away on Sunday, January 1, 2017 at the age of 60. Born on December 9, 1956 to Curtis and Irene Lee, he was preceded in death by his mother, Irene Jones Lee; and his step-mother, Lucille S. Lee.

Nathan graduated from Hopewell High School in 1975, James Madison University in 1979, and the Walter F. George Law School at Mercer University in 1983. He practiced law in Hopewell, Virginia for thirty years, served as a substitute judge, and then was appointed as a Sixth District Circuit Court judge in 2012. He was a compassionate man who was well-respected by many.

Many knew Nathan for his giving nature and strong, calming demeanor. He was an active and devoted member of the Hopewell Optimist Club where he served as President 1988-89. So many members have fond memories of working with him at the Christmas tree lot and at other charitable events throughout the years. Nathan was a member of the First United Methodist Church. There, he had previously served on the Trustees Committee and the Endowment Committee. His impact on the community was further evident through his work with the Crater Community Hospice and as a Commissioner of the Hopewell Redevelopment & Housing Authority. He was also a member of the Hopewell Salt Water Anglers.

Outside of work, Nathan treasured time with his family. They loved to take trips to the mountains, Cape Hatteras, and Walt Disney World. Some of his other favorite pastimes included reading John Grisham novels, listening to Eric Clapton, and revisiting the Shenandoah Valley where he attended college with his wife.

Nathan’s presence brought joy to many, and he will be so dearly missed by family, a wide circle of friends and colleagues. He is survived by his wife of 37 years, Rhonda Watson Lee; his daughters and sons-in-law, Nicole Lee (Bret Zawilski), and Mallory di Stefano (Andrew); his father, Curtis J. Lee; his sister, Gloria Gray (Joe); his brother Joe Lee (Akiko); his beloved brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, and many dear friends. A Memorial Service will be held at First Baptist Church 401 N. 2nd Avenue, Hopewell, VA 23860 on Friday, January 6, 2017 at 11am. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Hopewell Optimist Club, 1310 Lynchburg St, Hopewell, VA 23860 or the First United Methodist Church, 502 W Broadway Ave, Hopewell, VA 23860.