OLD LYME—Denise Rowena (Dye) Lee, 75, of Old Lyme, died peacefully Wednesday July 24, 2024, after a lengthy battle with Alzheimer’s Disease, with her loving husband of 54 years Larry by her side, and surrounded by family.
Denise was born on January 28, 1949, in Baltimore, Maryland … attended Catholic schools and graduated from the Boston University School of Nursing in 1970.
Denise met her husband Larry in October 1969; they were engaged 6 weeks later, married 6 months after that, and spent the next 54 years together.
As a nurse, Denise held positions in visiting nursing; on the children’s unit at CT Valley Hospital; on the drug and alcohol detox unit at Norwich State Hospital; in group homes; and as a Hospice nurse …
… As a martial arts instructor, she passed wisdom and knowledge to the hundreds of students that she taught over her 28-year career. “Integrity, Intent, Indomitable Spirit” was the motto at Lees’ Martial Arts, … “The Karate Lady” as she was fondly known could easily be identified around town through her license plate “INTENT.” Denise lived every day with the intent to leave the world a better place because she had been in it, a mission she certainly accomplished.
Denise is survived by her husband of 54 years, Lawrence John Lee of Old Lyme, CT and her siblings Noelle Dye and Ian Dye and their families. Denise’s legacy will live on in her children, Dylan (Sally Ann) of Old Saybrook, CT and Ryan (Melanie) of Old Lyme, CT, and her grandchildren Lauren, Colin, Parker, and Brody. She is predeceased by her parents and her younger brother, Justin Dye.
A memorial gathering to celebrate Denise’s remarkable life will be held from 1-4 pm, Sunday August 11, 2024, at Scotch Plains Tavern in Essex, CT.
In lieu of flowers, we ask that you spend that money or time reaching out to a loved one …
Editor’s Note: Visit this link to read the full obituary published by Legacy Remembers on Jul. 30, 2024.
Denise & Larry raised two wonderful sons!!They will carry on her legacy!
Bill Rayder
Our family was just talking about Denise Lee a few days ago! She made the world a more wonderful place and for that we are grateful. May her family be reminded of just how many lives she touched and know that the values she instilled will be passed along. My thoughts are with her husband, children and many friends and family.