Lee S. McWaters' Obituary
Lee Steven McWaters, 58, of Memphis, Tennessee went to be with our Lord on March 28, 2024. Lee was born in San Diego, California, the son of Louise (Bebe) and William (Bill) McWaters on February 16, 1966. He graduated from Memphis University School in the class of 1984 where he excelled in soccer and track. Lee graduated from Southern Methodist University (SMU) where he was a member of Phi Delta Theta and the varsity soccer team. Upon graduation, Lee returned home to join his mother, Bebe McWaters, in the real estate business, and dedicated his life to serving the city of Memphis. Lee was owner and president of McWaters & Associates Realtors, he was MAAR Realtor of the Year in 2004, served as President of Memphis Area Association Realtors (MAAR) in 2019, and served on the Board of MAAR for many years along with the Ethics and Governmental Affairs Committees. Lee found great comfort in knowing that Bebe’s legacy would continue under the leadership of Julie Upchurch at McWaters & Associates, which was started over 52 years ago. He took such pride in working side by side with his beloved mother. Lee served on the Youth Villages Board, and was presented with the Lion Heart Award from the city of Memphis for his outstanding service over the years. MAAR awarded him with the Community Service Award. One of Lee’s fondest memories was delivering Meals on Wheels (MIFA) every week for over 30 plus years with his dad.
Lee was a longtime member of Hope Presbyterian Church where he served as deacon. Over the years, he volunteered many hours coaching soccer, and was the integral part of establishing St. George’s Dragon Soccer program leading them to two state championships.
A loving son, father, brother, uncle, and friend, Lee was loved by all who knew him. His quick wit, competitive spirit, perseverance, positive attitude, humble nature, megawatt smile, and twinkle in his eye will be missed so much. He would say that his greatest gifts in his life were his faith, his family, his friendships, and above all…his children. Lee is preceded in death by his mother Bebe McWaters. He is survived by his father William (Bill) McWaters, his children Smith McWaters, Mary Virginia (Boo) McWaters, and Billy McWaters, his brother Bill (Penne) McWaters, his sister Nancy (Tim) Cowan, and his constant friend and support Kate Gould.
A Visitation will be held at Memorial Park Funeral Home on Sunday, April 14 from 4:00 until 6:00
A Celebration of Life Service will be held at Hope Church (8500 Walnut Grove Road) on Monday, April 15 at 3:00; Reception following.
The family requests that memorials be sent to St. George’s Independent School, 1880 Wolf River Boulevard, Collierville, TN 38017, Hope Church, Youth Villages, MIFA, Kosten Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer Research, or the charity of one’s choice.
What’s your fondest memory of Lee?
What’s a lesson you learned from Lee?
Share a story where Lee's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Lee you’ll never forget.
How did Lee make you smile?