Dr. Lee Wright Holliday

Life and Legacy of Dr. Lee Wright Holliday

On December 28, 1946, Lee was born as the first of ten children to Duncan "Dunk" and Dorothy Wright in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Her early years were a tapestry of Southern charm - running barefoot along Sunshine Road, which was paved with white shells, reading books late into the night with a flashlight under the covers, and filling the home with the sounds of her big black grand piano, a piece of furniture that many initially dismissed, yet would become central to her life's story.

Lee's academic journey was as impressive as it was inspiring. She graduated at the top of her class from Scotlandville High School in 1964, a testament to her intellect and drive. She then pursued higher education at Southern University in Baton Rouge, where she earned both her Bachelor's and Master's degrees. Alongside these academic milestones, she also earned her "MRS" degree in 1965 and her "MOM" degree in 1966 with the birth of her first daughter, Karen Baunchand, followed by Rochelle Baunchand (Kasue) in 1967. Lee's thirst for knowledge culminated in a PhD from Kansas State University in 1976, marking her as a distinguished scholar.

Throughout her life, Lee was dedicated to education - not only for herself but for the countless students she taught over the years. She was a teacher by profession, but also a model of perseverance and hard work. To provide for her daughters, she often took on side hustles, working at a Texaco station and a flower shop, where her girls would join her, answering phones or helping grade papers late into the night.

In 1979, Lee and her family deepened their spiritual journey by being baptized into the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This commitment strengthened her faith in Jesus Christ and fortified her belief in God's plan of salvation.

Lee's adventurous spirit and quest for fulfillment led her to New Mexico, where she found her ideal home and perfect partner. Through her church's missionary program, she met Willie, a man who was her match in every way. During their courtship, Willie realized that he had seen her before - years earlier, she had performed the "Venetian Boat Song" at a piano recital, leaving such an impression on him that he was inspired to learn the piece himself. In 1984, Lee married Willie Holliday, and they embarked on a life together in New Mexico, where they played and taught piano with great proficiency, traveled the world, touched countless hearts, and she ultimately retired after decades of teaching.

Lee's life was enriched by the love and support of her friends, neighbors, co-workers, and her dedicated caregiver, Pauline.

On August 28, 2024, Lee peacefully completed her earthly mission, joining her father, Dunk Wright, and her beloved husband, Willie Holliday, in the spiritual realm.

She leaves behind a legacy of love, learning, and faith. Lee is survived by her mother, Dorothy Wright, six sisters and three brothers, her two daughters, five grandsons, aunts, uncles, cousins, and a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family and friends who will forever cherish her memory.

Life Celebration Service, 11:00 AM, Saturday, September 7, 2024, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 4901 Harding Street, Baker, Louisiana 70714.

Memorial Service, 11:00 AM, Saturday, September 14, 2024, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1010 Bondad Avenue, Grants, New Mexico 87020.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Lee's memory can be made to the American Cancer Society.