James “Hobie” Hobert Lee, 79, of Roanoke Rapids, passed away on Tuesday, November 4, 2025 in ECU Health North Hospital in Roanoke Rapids. 

Mr. Lee was born on August 23, 1946 in Roanoke Rapids. 

He is preceded in death by his wife Frances Harris Lee, his mother Dezzie Lee Spruill Bateman, his grandparents Fay Hobert Spruill and Alice Biggs Spruill, and his brothers: Hillard Fay Bateman, Julian Ray Bateman, and Lonnie Farrell Bateman.

Surviving include his daughter Lori Lee Rhea and her husband Robert John Rhea of Roanoke Rapids; his grandchildren Edward “Eddie” Alvin Rhea and Thomas “Tommy” Lee Rhea and his wife Victoria Cash; his two great grandchildren James and Maddie; his sisters Alice Bateman Hoggard and June Chyrell Bateman, both of Windsor; and his brother John Leroy Bateman of Roper.

A Memorial Service will be held at 2:00 PM on Sunday, November 9, 2025 at Quankie Baptist Church with Dr. Lavelle Waters officiating. 

The family will receive friends following the service in the fellowship hall. 

Memorials may be to Quankie Baptist Church, 4070 Highway 48, Roanoke Rapids, NC 27870. Friends may sign the online register by visiting www.hockadayfs.com

Hockaday Funeral & Cremation Service is serving the Lee family.