Obituary of Walter L. Lee

ROCHESTER, NY – August 31, 2025

Walter L. Lee was born on January 7, 1946, in Kingstree, South Carolina, the seventh of eight children born to Ruby Pressley Lee and Hartley Lee, Sr. His legacy stands as a testament to resilience, determination, and unwavering commitment to family and community.

He leaves behind his ex-wife Everline Lee and their three loving children: Jacqueline Lee, LeTicia Lee, and Mitchell David Lee - along with Mitchell's wife, Danielle Lee. Walter took immense pride in his grandchildren, Brieanna Lee Blackett, Morgan Michelle Lee, Jackson Mitchell Lee, his great-grandchild, Ella Soleil Lee Edwards, as well as his godsons, Anthony Duane Thomas and Anthony Wilson. He is also survived by his second ex-wife, Janice Harbin, his only remaining sister, Katie Veronica Lee, and numerous nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends who were touched by his remarkable life.

Walter's extraordinary journey began with a fierce determination to forge a better life beyond the constraints of the Jim Crow South. At the age of 16, he struck out on his own and relocated from Kingstree, South Carolina to Rochester, New York. There, he quickly became an influential voice in the civil rights movement, working alongside his mentor – Rev. Raymond L. Graves of New Bethel CME Church.

Through exceptional talent and unwavering perseverance, Walter ascended through the ranks at the Eastman Kodak Company (Kodak), distinguishing himself as one of their premier professional photographers. His powerful images graced Kodak publications and were prominently displayed at New York's Grand Central Station and the Statue of Liberty - enduring testaments to his artistic vision and technical mastery.

A visionary with profound social consciousness, Walter recognized the critical importance of addressing Black health disparities long before such issues gained widespread attention. He channeled his photographic expertise into producing groundbreaking medical films on Sickle Cell Anemia, Hypertension, and Nutrition - works specifically focused on Black health issues. Through his company, Lee Creative Communications, Walter brought global awareness to an underserved community, filling a crucial void in medical education during the 1970s and 1980s.

Never one to accept limitations, Walter created spaces where Black professionals could thrive. He founded the iconic nightclub Cisco's in Rochester - a vibrant gathering place where community, culture, and excellence converged, fostering connections that would span generations.

For those who were fortunate enough to know Walter Lee, aka “Kodak Lee,” it was evident he possessed profound wisdom - a walking encyclopedia of history and experience, always eager to share knowledge, embrace learning, and engage in meaningful dialogue. He lived by the principle that "iron sharpens iron," instilling in his children the values of self-sufficiency, intellectual curiosity, and the paramount importance of family.

Walter Lee's life brilliantly illuminated the boundless potential of the human spirit. His legacy continues through the lives he touched, the barriers he broke, and the wisdom he shared. He remains a guiding light for his family, his community, and all who were privileged to know him.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture in Walter's memory, continuing his lifelong commitment to preserving and celebrating Black history and achievement.  https://walterleememorial.weebly.com.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11