Deborah Kay Lee

Myrtle Beach… Deborah Kay Lee, 69, passed away peacefully at her home on Thursday, June 18, 2026. She was born on August 17, 1956, in Conway, South Carolina, to the late Joe D. Lee and Thelma Dunn Lee. Better known to family and friends as "Debbie," she grew up in Conway and was a graduate of Conway High School and Coastal Carolina College. Debbie dedicated much of her professional life to working with children who had significant disabilities and specialized educational needs through her career with Horry County Schools, from which she later retired. Through her years of service, she provided support and assistance to students requiring individualized care and instruction. Known for her sharp sense of humor, thoughtful perspective, and independent nature, Debbie approached life on her own terms and remained true to herself throughout the years. She enjoyed spending time at the beach and maintained a lifelong fondness for English bulldogs, a breed that always held a special place in her heart. She treasured holiday gatherings, birthday celebrations, and time spent with family and close friends, sharing laughter and creating lasting memories. In addition to her parents, Debbie was preceded in death by her sister, Patricia Lee Butler. Debbie is survived by her nieces, Bryn Butler Layne and her husband, Doug, of Mebane, North Carolina, and Carole Lee Butler and her fiancé, Myles Cooper, of Sydney, Australia; a dedicated friend, Teresa Butler and her husband, Keith, of Mount Pleasant, South Carolina; and several cousins, extended family members, and friends. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Debbie's caregivers, especially Ms. Eloise Calloway, for her dedication, companionship, and care. The family also wishes to extend a special thank-you to Pruitt Health Hospice for the comfort, compassion, and support they provided to Debbie and her loved ones during her final months of life. A visitation will be held at Goldfinch Funeral Home, Conway Chapel on Monday, June 22, 2026 from 6 p.m until 8 p.m. The family will have a private service at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to the Grand Strand Humane Society at www.grandstrandhumanesociety.com or to the Conway Library, 801 Main Street, Conway, SC 29526. Goldfinch Funeral Home, Conway Chapel is in charge of the arrangements.

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Deborah Kay Lee

August 17, 1956 - June 18, 2026