Dr. Rufus Ernest Lee, Jr.

Dr. Rufus Ernest Lee, Jr. passed away peacefully, at the age of ninety two, on August 2, 2023, in Dothan, Alabama. He was surrounded by his family and holding his wife’s hand. Born on October 7, 1930, in Eufaula, Alabama, Rufus was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, and friend to many.

Rufus was preceded in death by his parents, Rufus Lee Sr. and Thelma Bush Lee, and his sister Mary Ann Lee Beamon. He is survived by his wife of 69 years, Mary Julia Lee; children, Russell Lee (Pat), Stacy Lee Hall (David), Chris Lee (Vera), Mary Julia Beamon Fedel (Alex), and brother-in-law, William D. Martinson; grandchildren, Christin Lee Bishop (Heather), Jon David Hall, Ross E. Lee (Crystal), Nathan Hall (Summer), Mary Amanda Hall, Mary Duncan Lee, Cassadey Fedel and seven great-grandchildren. His nieces, nephews, and other family members, along with his Joykeepers and Melissa Watson, will remember him fondly.

Rufus was an accomplished scholar and the first in his family to attend college. He earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Alabama where he was Grand Procurator of the Beta Chapter of Kappa Sigma Fraternity, his medical degree from the University of Alabama School of Medicine, Residency in Pediatrics at Mayo Clinic Minnesota, and a Fellowship in Allergy/Immunology at the McGovern Allergy Clinic in Houston, Texas. He had a passion for medical study that persisted throughout the course of his life. He started his Allergy practice in Dothan in 1972 and retired at the age of seventy.

He was the founder and President of the Alabama Society of Asthma, Allergy, and Immunology; President of the American Association of Certified Allergists, and President of the American College of Asthma, Allergy and Immunology.

He earned and received many accolades during his lifetime, however, those that captured his heart include: The Gold-Headed Cane Award given by the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology; The Rufus E. Lee, Jr. Lecture awarded by the Alabama Society of Asthma, Allergy, and Immunology; Eagle Scout and Golden Eagle.

Rufus was a man of many interests. He was a passionate Alabama football fan, he loved the beach and boating with family and friends. He was a devoted fan of his children’s activities and was present at every game, every recital and nearly every practice. Rufus loved the Lord and First Baptist Church. He was devoted to deep service and study of God’s Word. Above all, he loved his family deeply and enjoyed spending quality time with them.

Those who knew Rufus would describe him as an encouraging, intelligent, generous, and loving person whose hugs would touch their heart. His intelligence was not only displayed in his academic and professional achievements but also in his insightful conversations and keen understanding of the world. His generosity was evident in his selfless service to his community, his giving nature, and his willingness to lend a helping hand to those in need. His love was boundless, encompassing his family, friends, and everyone he met.

Dr. Rufus Ernest Lee, Jr. lived a life full of love, service, and accomplishment. His legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him. His life serves as a beacon of inspiration, reminding us all to live with purpose, serve with passion, and love without limits. He will be greatly missed but his spirit will forever resonate in the lives of those he touched.

A celebration of Rufus life will begin with visitation on Friday, August 4, 2023 at Sunset Memorial Park Funeral Home from 5:00pm until 7:00pm. The celebration will continue on Saturday at 12:00pm at the First Baptist Church of Dothan. Dr. Taylor Rutland to officiate.

In lieu of flowers the family respectfully requests your donations made to: First Baptist Church of Dothan – Community Missions or The Allergists Foundation 85 W. Algonquin Road, #550 Arlington, Heights, IL 60005

Robert and Toni Byrd · Sunset Memorial Park

1700 Barrington Rd, Midland City AL · (334) 983-6604