CLEVELAND, Miss. – Delta State University Athletics mourns the passing of Hall of Famer Dr. Thomas Wayne Lee, Jr., who passed away on June 26, 2026, at the age of 92. A proud Statesman, educator, veteran, mentor, and friend, Dr. Lee leaves behind a legacy of excellence, service, and compassion that will forever be woven into the fabric of Delta State University.
A standout forward for the Statesmen during the 1956-57 season, Dr. Lee helped lead Delta State to a 36-11 record, the 1956 District 19 NAIA Championship, and a berth in the NAIA National Tournament. His accomplishments on the court earned him induction into the Delta State University Athletic Hall of Fame in 1994.
Following his time as a student-athlete, Dr. Lee dedicated his life to serving others. After serving in the United States Army, he built a distinguished career as a teacher, coach, and professor. In 2000, he returned to his alma mater as a biology professor, where he inspired generations of Delta State students until his retirement in 2014.
While his accomplishments in athletics and education were remarkable, those who knew Dr. Lee will remember him most for the kindness, humor, and genuine care he showed every person he encountered. His classroom was filled with laughter, encouragement, and life lessons that extended far beyond biology.
Former student Dr. Andrew "Drew" Gordon reflected on the lasting impression Dr. Lee made during his time at Delta State.
"Dr. Lee was a one-of-a-kind guy! He was one of my favorite professors in graduate school at Delta State. I graduated from DSU in May 2005. He always kept you laughing and would be a fatherly advisor whenever you needed one. He is someone I'll never forget. I loved that man. May God bring his family comfort and peace."
Former Delta State student-athlete Ashlee (Nodhturft) Scott also remembered the special presence Dr. Lee had on campus.
"When I think of my DSU days, he is one that always comes to mind. What a character he was. If he wasn't out taking walks around the stadium, you could usually find him on our deck, heckling us while we were practicing (2004-2006). Just an all-around great teacher, mentor, personal advisor, and friend. He will truly be missed. May God bless you and keep you, Dr.
Lee."
The memories shared by former students speak to the countless lives Dr. Lee touched throughout his career. Whether he was teaching in the classroom, walking across campus,
cheering on students, or simply offering encouragement when it was needed most, he made everyone around him feel valued. His unwavering dedication to education, mentorship, and service exemplified the values of Delta State University and created a legacy that will continue to inspire generations of Statesmen and Lady Statesmen.
Delta State Athletics extends its deepest condolences to Dr. Lee's family, friends, former students, teammates, colleagues, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy as a Hall of Fame student-athlete, respected educator, devoted mentor, and proud Statesman will forever be remembered and celebrated by the Delta State family.
