Darryl Wayne Lee "Paw Paw Darryl" was born on April 15, 1961, in New Orleans, Louisiana, to the late Juniors and Florence Lee. He was one of seven siblings, and from an early age, he demonstrated a strong faith in God. Darryl professed his life to Christ at a young age and was baptized at McKowen Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Alvin McCory. As an adult, Darryl continued his spiritual journey by joining Bethany Christian Center, where he was baptized again, reaffirming his devotion.

He was educated in the East Baton Rouge Parish School System and went on to earn a Bachelor's degree in criminal justice and a Master's Degree in Business Administration from the University of Phoenix. Darryl's dedication to education and personal growth was a testament to his commitment to bettering himself, his family and serving his community.

On March 27, 2021, Darryl married his beloved wife, Cynthia O. Lee. The two shared a loving marriage until Darryl's passing.

Darryl was a cherished and valuable member of our community, whose kindness, humor, and laid-back spirit brought joy to all who knew him. He worked at all three of the family's grocery stores (Lee's Grocery), he served as a dedicated supervisor at both the Angola and Dixon Correctional Centers until his retirement in 2023, choosing to follow his true passion of continuing to serve and uplift his community. Darryl was more than just a leader; he was a constant source of encouragement, inspiration, and positivity. His unwavering commitment to others, his deep love for his family, and his passion for making a difference have left an indelible mark on all who were fortunate enough to cross his path. His legacy of selflessness and service will continue to inspire generations to come.

Darryl leaves to cherish his loving memory, his wife Cynthia O. Lee; two aunts, Gussie Smith Cushenberry and Gloria Smith; six siblings: Minster Brenda Joyce Lee Smith Jackson, Juniors Wilfred Lee (Barbara), Randall Charles Lee (Dorothy), Cynthia Marie Lee Simmons (Warren), Julia Lee Reed (Eric) and Kenneth Ray Lee; three daughters: Kalana Stampley (Willie T.), Daphine Farlin (Cornell), and Jessica Brady (Edward, Jr.); seven grandchildren: Darius T. Stampley, Edward Brady, III, Taye T. Stampley, Kaleb T. Stampley, Kaiden T. Stampley, Leaigh Brady, and Calvin Brady; two great-grandchildren, Aubrey N. Stampley and Ky'Vin T. Stampley; and a host of nephews, nieces, great-nephews, great-nieces, cousins, and friends.

He is proceeded in death by his parents, Juniors and Florence Lee; grandparents, Sam and Kate Lee and Gus, Sr. and Bertha Winsey Smith; uncles, Gus Smith, Robert Smith, William Smith, George Smith, and Ruffin Smith; sister-in-law, Karen Batiste Lee; nephew, Ulysses Travolta Gage; great-nephew, Desmond Gage; and great-niece, Dream Coleman.