Velma Ruth Bryson Lee

Velma Ruth Bryson Lee, 95, of Walhalla, passed away on Sunday, March 8, 2026 at Cottingham Hospice House.

A native of Oconee County, she was the daughter of the late Robert Lincoln and Inez Cantrell Bryson. Though Oconee County remained her lifelong home, she spent meaningful years in Pensacola, Florida, where she formed many cherished friendships. Mrs. Lee was deeply involved in her community as a member of the Seneca Chamber of Commerce. She was the owner and operator of two local boutiques, Velma’s Vogue in Walhalla and Sally Shop in Seneca. A gifted artist, she expressed her creativity through painting, wood carving, and intricate needlework, bringing beauty and joy to those around her.

Mrs. Lee was the beloved wife of the late Frank Edward Lee. She is survived by her daughters, Alice Lee Cartee (Wayne), Margaret Lee Palmer (Gary L. Alexander), and Doris Whitfield (Dot); her grandchildren, David Cartee (Jeannie), Stephanie Creel (Charlie), Bradley Palmer (Amy), Gregory Palmer (Kristen), Douglas Palmer (Whitney), Carolyn Jackson (Ted), Cindy Fowler (Mark), and Rita Cantrell (Scott); and her great-grandchildren, Cale, Haley, Madelyn, Hannah, Abby, Elizabeth, Cara, Camden, Carsyn, Madeline, Griffen, Lexi, Mirah Bay, Gage, Jackson, Harlen, Kadence, Lacey, Jason, Cassidy, and Carley.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her siblings, Edith, Odel, Iona, and Ray.