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Cozax “Zach” Malachi Lee, 50, passed away on March 28, 2026, in Fort Smith, Arkansas. He was born on August 8, 1975, in Fort Smith to Shirley Fort-Lee and Rev. Lorenzo Lee. Zach was a graduate of the University of the Ozarks, where he earned a degree in Philosophy and Theology. He spent several years working as a manager with Lowe’s, but his true passion was serving and supporting others in his community, where he dedicated much of his time and heart.
On August 20, 2005, Zach married the love of his life, Katherine Lee, and together they shared 20 wonderful years of marriage filled with love and devotion.
In his free time, Zach enjoyed watching movies, spending time with friends, collecting coins, and exploring antique shops.
A 32° Mason, Zach was a member of Mission United Methodist Church. He deeply valued fellowship with like minded believers and in that spirit, he often visited and worshiped with other churches throughout the community.
Zach's life was a testament to faith, love, resilience, and connection. His legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched and the love he gave so freely.
Zach is survived by his wife, Katherine Lee; his daughter, Olivia Lee; and a host of extended family and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, Lorenzo and Shirley Lee; and his siblings, Jerome Roberts, Rodney Lee, and Derek Todd.
Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Friday, April 10, 2026 at Lewis Funeral Chapel in Fort Smith. Viewing will be held during the visitation hours only and will not take place at the funeral service. The funeral service will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 11, 2026 at 9th Street Missionary Baptist Church in Fort Smith.
Pallbearers will be Demetrius Washington, Dajin Holmes, Marcus Adams, Rakirm Jackson, A'shon'dre Benton, and Fitzgerald Barnum.
Acknowledgments:
The family would like to extend a special thank you to Gary Washington, Wyatt Flake, and Aaron Nickson for their support and presence in the final hours of his life, ensuring a peaceful transition. Thank you to Rita Watkins for her ongoing support of arrangement preparation of services. Thank you to Christy Wise and family for their love and daily support through this time and through the years.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Cozax "Zach" Malachi Lee, please visit our floral store.