Deacon Earnest James “Buck” Lee, age 82, peacefully transitioned on Friday, August 7, 2026, at his residence under the care of Ogeechee Area Hospice after an extended illness.

A native of Bulloch County, Mr. Lee was retired from Brodie Meters Company LLC of Statesboro, Georgia, where he served as a supervisor for 50 dedicated years. He was a member of Saint Mary’s Baptist Church, where he served as a Deacon and Usher, sang in the church choir, and served on the Finance Committee. He was also a past member of the Bulloch County Planning and Zoning Commission. Deacon Lee enjoyed fishing and sports.

He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Barbara Lee of Statesboro, Georgia; children, Tonya Lee (Tony) Willis of College Park, Georgia, and Travis (Monique) Lee of Loganville, Georgia; three grandchildren, Brycen Lee, Trase Lee, and Miles Lee of Loganville, Georgia; and one great-grandchild, Taylen Lee of Killeen, Texas.

He is also survived by one sister, Retha Smith of Peekskill, New York; two brothers, Robert Lee of Oxford, Maine, and Samuel Lee of Wappingers Falls, New York. He also leaves behind a host of extended family members and dear friends who will forever treasure his memory.

Deacon Earnest James “Buck” Lee will lie-in-state (viewing) on Saturday, August 15, 2026 from 10:00A.M.-11:00A.M. at Saint Mary's Missionary Baptist Church, 2227 Mallard Pond Rd, Statesboro, GA 30461.

There will be no viewing at Craig R Tremble Funeral Home.

Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, August 15, 2026 at 11a.m. at Saint Mary's Missionary Baptist Church, 2227 Mallard Pond Rd, Statesboro, GA 30461. Rev. Timotheus Mincey, Pastor/Eulogist

Interment will be held at Bulloch Memorial Gardens, 22002 US-80, Statesboro, GA 30459

Friends may sign the online register book at www.craigrtremblefuneralhome.com.

All services and arrangements are entrusted to the care of Craig R. Tremble Funeral Homes, Inc., Statesboro Chapel, 238 West Main Street, Statesboro, GA 30458