News Summary
The Chattanooga community is in mourning following the unexpected passing of Ralph Michael ‘Mike’ Lees, a beloved music educator, on April 7, 2025. Throughout his 35-year career, Mike inspired countless students and made significant contributions to local theater and music programs. His legacy as a teacher, performer, and community advocate will forever be etched in the hearts of those who knew him. A Celebration of Life is planned to honor his memory, and donations can be made in his name to the Performing Arts League.
Chattanooga Mourns the Loss of Ralph Michael “Mike” Lees, a Cherished Music Educator
Chattanooga and its vibrant community came to a standstill as they grieved the unexpected passing of Ralph Michael “Mike” Lees, who left this world on April 7, 2025, at the age of 73. This sudden loss has sent shockwaves through the hearts of many who admired him, remembered him fondly, and were touched by his incredible talent and generosity.
A Life Rooted in Music and Education
Born on May 8, 1951, in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Mike was predestined for a life filled with music. His love for the ivory keys began in childhood, leading him towards an impressive journey as a musician. Over the years, he played the piano at Lookout Valley Baptist Church and Central High School, and participated wholeheartedly in all school musicals. To support his college education, he took up teaching piano lessons—a small venture that paved the way for a greater calling in music.
After graduating from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC) with a degree in music education, he dedicated his life to teaching and mentoring young artists. Over the course of 35 years, Mike lovingly taught choir and musical theater at various schools including Red Bank High School, McConnell Elementary, Spring Creek Elementary, and Chattanooga School for the Arts and Sciences (CSAS). His influence as a teacher was profound, leaving behind countless former students who will always cherish their time with him.
Caring, Charitable, and Community-Driven
Throughout his career, Mike exemplified what it means to be a true community figure. He cared for his mother at home until her passing, aided by his dear friend, and continually participated in community service. His work was not limited to the classroom; he also became the choral and musical theater director at Girls Preparatory School (GPS) after his public school teaching career. At GPS, he directed the Coordinate Program with The McCallie School for seven years, further cementing his legacy in the arts.
Mike’s contributions to community theater were unmatched, directing or performing in over 70 shows across Chattanooga. Notably, he made his mark with key performances such as Juan Peron in Evita and Archibald Craven in The Secret Garden at the Chattanooga Theater Center. His commitment to the art was recognized in his dedication to the board of directors of the Chattanooga Theater Center for a remarkable 17 years.
A Master in More Than Music
Beyond being a gifted musician and educator, Mike was a talented decorator and flower designer, co-owning Williamsburg Florist and Lees Flowers. His ability to create stunning floral arrangements and beautiful table settings was well known, as was his knack for hosting delightful fundraising events at his home on Signal Mountain.
Mike dedicated his skills to numerous organizations, such as the Medical Auxiliary, the Kidney Foundation, and the American Heart Association, contributing his talent by performing music for weddings and funerals alike. He was actively involved with the Performing Arts League (PAL) and the Choral Arts Society. His role with the Tennessee Junior Miss and America’s Junior Miss Scholarship Programs allowed him to guide young contestants, fostering talent and confidence while helping them achieve their dreams.
Beloved Partner and Family Man
Mike was not only a musical savant but also a deeply devoted partner. He is survived by his loving partner of 37 years and husband of eight years, Robert Jackson, as well as his brother David Lees, Sr., niece Mary Ann Carver, nephew David Lees, Jr., and numerous friends and relatives. His two fur babies, Duke and Duchess, will surely miss their cherished companion deeply.
A Celebration of Life
As the community rallies together to celebrate Mike’s life, a Celebration of Life will be announced in the coming weeks. Those wishing to honor his memory can make donations to the Performing Arts League at P.O. Box 4389, Chattanooga, TN, 37405.
Mike Lees will be remembered not just for his musical talent, but for the profound impact he made on his students and the community. The enthusiastic cries of “MR. LEES, MR. LEES!!” will echo in the hearts of many who were lucky enough to know him.
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Additional Resources
- Chattanoogan: Ralph Michael “Mike” Lees
- Wikipedia: Music Education
- Chattanoogan: Rucker Charles B. “Charlie” Jr.
- Google Search: Community Theater Chattanooga
- Times Free Press: Peter Pan Launches Chattanooga Theatre Center’s Season
- Google Scholar: Music Education Chattanooga
- Chattanoogan: GPS Welcomes 15 New Faculty
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Music Education Impact
- Chattanoogan: Earl Freudenberg – The Explosion That
- Google News: Music Education
