Leesburg High School will honor the life and legacy of David Lee, a hometown educator, coach and community champion, by retiring his jersey at Pat Thomas Stadium.

David, a Leesburg native and lifelong resident, passed away in 2019 at the age of 55 in Gainesville. Though gone, his impact on generations of students and athletes continues to be felt across the community.

A 1981 graduate of Leesburg High School, Lee wore No. 19 while playing baseball for the Yellow Jackets before continuing his playing career at the University of Central Florida in 1986. His passion for education and athletics led him into a lifelong career serving students throughout Central Florida.

Lee taught high school English at Leesburg, Mount Dora, Eustis and Apopka, and later served as a media specialist at Eustis High School. He spent 34 years coaching high school baseball and led Eustis High School to a Florida State Championship in 2000.

Beyond the classroom and the field, Lee was known for his love of music, often playing the guitar, and for his deep appreciation of reading.

“David was all heart,” his obituary read. “He cared about things and people passionately, and his mere presence was felt by all who had the good fortune to be around him.”

Those who played for David remember him as more than a baseball coach. He was a mentor and role model who emphasized leadership, character and accountability alongside the fundamentals of the game. His approach mirrored that of longtime coach Buddy Lowe, who believed coaching was as much about shaping young men as it was about winning games.

The jersey retirement ceremony will take place Tuesday, Feb. 3 at 6:50pm at Pat Thomas Stadium. First pitch of the Yellow Jackets’ game against Eustis is scheduled for 7pm.