Julia Hamilton Lee

Julia Hamilton Lee, affectionately known as Judy, passed away peacefully at her home on March 21, 2026, after a courageous battle with ALS. Born on February 26, 1945, in Hartford, Connecticut, Judy's life was a tapestry of compassion, warmth, and unwavering dedication to those she loved and served. Judy was the cherished daughter of the late James Spencer Lee and Julia Hamilton Lee. She was predeceased by her beloved brothers, Edgar Lee and Peter Adams, whose memories she held dear. Her legacy continues through her devoted daughters, Michele Lee Goodrich of Simsbury, CT, and Julia Hamilton Vaughn, along with her son-in-law Jeffrey Allen Vaughn of Helena, AL. Judy's heart was full with the love of her grandchildren: Julia Hamilton Vaughn, Garrett Hayes Vaughn, and step-grandchildren Ashley M. Cox, along with her husband Taylor Cox, Shelby E. Vaughn, and Brennan A. Vaughn. She was also blessed with two step-great-grandchildren, Anderson J. Cox and Shepard Cox. Judy's journey began at Stoneleigh-Prospect Hill School in Greenfield, MA, where she graduated in 1964, and later earned her bachelor's degree in Women's Studies from the University of Vermont. Her career was marked by over 25 years of dedicated service as a Shipping Coordinator for the French Division at Vineyard Brands, utilizing her fluency in French to facilitate the importation of fine wines. In 2006, Judy answered a divine calling to serve as a Deacon in the Episcopal Church of Alabama, where she enriched the lives of many through her ministry. As a Deacon, Judy served at the Episcopal Place and St. Andrews Episcopal Church in Montevallo, AL, where her warmth and kindness were a beacon of light. She was a tireless advocate for the residents and played a key role in organizing services every Wednesday. Her commitment to community service was further demonstrated through her involvement with Habitat for Humanity and the Daughters of the King. Judy's passion for helping others shone brightly during her participation in the annual Gumbo Gala competition to raise funds for the Episcopal Place. Judy's life was filled with joy and laughter, whether she was engrossed in a good book, creating beautiful scrapbooks, or spending cherished moments with Michele at her horse farm in Connecticut. Her devotion to her daughter Julia and grandchildren Little Julia and Garrett was evident in the countless wonderful memories they shared. Judy's love for sharing the Gospel was evident to all who knew her, and her beautiful, warm smile was a reflection of her compassionate spirit. Her family extends heartfelt gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and staff at UAB's ALS Clinic, as well as the ALS Foundation and Team Gleeson, for their invaluable support during Judy's illness. A special thanks goes to Mark Elwood and his pilots for enabling Judy to visit her friends and family in Connecticut one last time. A celebration of Judy's life will be held on May 2, 2026, at The Episcopal Church of St. Francis of Assisi, located at 3545 Cahaba Valley Road, Indian Springs Village, AL 35124. The service will be available for livestream at saintfrancisindiansprings.org. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Episcopal Church of St. Francis of Assisi Memorial Fund in Judy's honor. Judy's legacy of love, perseverance, and faith will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her. She will be deeply missed, but her spirit will remain in our hearts forever.