Lee de Ovies

With profound love and deep sadness, we share the passing of Lee de Ovies, who left this world on Sunday, April 26, 2026, surrounded by her family after a courageous battle with cholangiocarcinoma. From the moment of her diagnosis, Lee met each day with bravery, strength, and an unshakable spirit.

Born July 18, 1955, in Mobile, Alabama, Lee grew up with a bright mind and a boundless sense of adventure. She graduated from Murphy High School and later earned a degree in Latin American Studies and International Business from the University of South Alabama.

Lee forged her own path early in life. After college, she launched an import/export business in Mobile before moving to Atlanta in 1981 to work and travel for JERO, a Dutch luxury textile firm. In 1990, she earned her Graduate Gemologist degree from the Gemological Institute of America and opened her jewelry design studio, Adamas, in Atlanta—an endeavor that blended her business acumen, artistic eye, and love of gems.

Lee was a remarkable artist. Her creative pursuits spanned jewelry design, intricately dyed traditional Ukrainian eggs, model ship building, underwater and nature photography, and drawing. A voracious reader, she was always hungry to learn. She loved tennis, hiking, scuba diving, and anything involving water—especially sailing. She loved music, theatre, cats, Alabama football weekends, and rocks which she hauled home from every corner of the world.

An intrepid traveler, Lee approached the world with curiosity and courage—once hiking Machu Picchu with a broken elbow. Wherever she went, she immersed herself fully in their history, landscapes, food, and customs. She adored the lush beauty and special people of Costa Rica and captured the wonders of the world through her camera with a discerning, creative eye. She and Marce shared a dream of exploring the world together, and they fulfilled it joyfully, visiting 115 countries over their thirty-two wonderful years together.

Lee was vivacious, smart, witty, and utterly authentic. Her glad heart and free spirit lifted everyone around her. She lived with a spark that made ordinary days feel extraordinary. She loved fiercely and was fiercely loved. Her joy will remain in every story told, every journey taken, and every moment of curiosity we allow ourselves to feel.

In her final days, Lee expressed no fear—only wonder for life and what might come next. Her grace and courage, even at the end, were a gift to those who loved her.

Lee is survived by her beloved wife, Marce Fuller, and their cats, Booger and MiMi; her mother, Gayle Freeauf; her sister Lindsey de Ovies and husband Marc Vermuelen; her niece Ariane and nephew Thibault; and Marce’s family—Tracy and Hank Pitts; Travis and Anita Fuller; Lance Fuller; and Brandon Fuller. She was preceded in death by her father, Julian Robert de Ovies Jr., and many beloved cats—especially Singe, her all time favorite.

In lieu of gifts, Lee would want you to read a book, go on a trip, or—ideally—both. She believed deeply in exploring the world, whether through pages or passports.

A celebration of Lee’s life will be held on July 18 in Asheville, North Carolina, more details to follow. Groce Funeral Home’s Lake Julian team is assisting the family.