Sara “Sam” Lee, 81, of Olympia, Washington, passed away peacefully on January 22, 2026, of Alzheimer’s.

Born in March 1944, the only child to James and Sarah McLean, Sara grew up in Aberdeen, Washington, graduating from Weatherwax High School and later from Saint Martin’s College (now Saint Martin’s University). Sara was among some of the very first women allowed to enroll at Saint Martin’s College where she was an active member with the drama department and worked many different jobs including running the campus bookstore. Graduating with a bachelor’s degree in Sociology, it was at Saint Martin’s where she was given the nickname of “Sam” which stuck with her the entirety of her life.

In 1968, Sam married Bill Sharpes and together they had one daughter, Teri. Bill preceded Sam in death in 1983. Sam later married Wayne Lee. Sam and Wayne were married for 21 years and enjoyed many adventures together, traveling, golfing, hunting and spending time at their cabin in Lake Cushman. Their very favorite adventure, bringing them the most joy, was being amazing grandparents. Not much brought them more joy than time spent with their grandchildren doing anything from attending sporting events, dance performances, plays, fishing, golfing, attending kite festivals, camping, or hanging out at home. Wayne preceded Sam in death in 2018.

Sam retired from the State of Washington where she had a long rewarding career as a juvenile drug and alcohol rehabilitation counselor. After retiring, Sam became very involved as a school volunteer at Lake’s Elementary where her grandchildren attended. Known as “Grammy Sammy” to many, she loved her years as a volunteer and getting to share her time with all the kids.

Passionate about life, Sam was known best for her one-of-a-kind personality. She was full of kindness, love, humor and had a fun feistiness complete with that special little smirk of hers usually accompanied by an eye roll like no other. IYKYK. She loved doing many hobbies ranging in variety from traveling, wood carving, hunting and fishing to arts and crafts of all kinds. She was especially devoted to her beautiful flower gardens that would rival anything on the cover of a magazine. Sam took many craft classes and joined different art groups after her retirement. No group, however, was more loved than her chosen family of kind souls and beautiful artists who were some of the best friends and soul sisters she ever had. She was loved by her dear friends Judy Daughtery, Tamara Hyde, Gloria Walker, and Cindy Sharp. Forever the Marvelous Mavens.

Sam is survived by her daughter, Teri Dean; grandchildren, Kaitlynn Dean and Zach Dean; her step-daughter, Vicki (Jack) Stephens and their children Elaine (Tony) Pullen, Susan Stephens, and Joey (Nikki) Stephens. Her stepdaughter, Robin Merril and Robin’s son Brian Long both preceded her in death.

 At Sam’s request there will be no formal service held, but the family will be hosting a simple gathering  April 19th  to celebrate Sam, the time and place are yet to be determined.