Ernest Lee Koty Jr.

Ernest Lee Koty Jr., a beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away on September 29, 2025, at Haywood Regional Medical Center. He was 92 years old.

Born on December 8, 1932, to the late Ernest and Marie Royster Koty in Davidson County, Tennessee, Ernest was a cherished figure in his community, known for his dedication to education and athletics. A proud graduate of the University of South Carolina, he devoted much of his life to shaping the future of young athletes as the Athletic Director in the South Carolina Public School System. His remarkable contributions to sports earned him the South Carolina High School Coach of the Year award multiple times, reflecting his commitment to instilling discipline, teamwork, and enthusiasm for excellence in all who crossed his path.

In addition to his parents and his beloved wife Libby, Lee is also preceded in death by his son-in-law Bill Sease, he is also preceded in death by a sister and brother-in-law, Betty and Jim Walker. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by those he loved and who loved him in return.

Lee's life was one filled with love, resilience, and adventures. After the passing of his dear wife, Mary Elizabeth "Libby" Gibbons Koty, in 1999, Lee found love again with Pat Kirkland. Together, they shared many memorable journeys, building a bond that brought joy and companionship. Their travels took them far and wide until health challenges led him to settle in beautiful Waynesville, North Carolina.

He is survived by his loving daughter, Marylee Koty Sease; son, Ernest McDowell "Dow" Koty (Suzanne); and his treasured grandchildren: Mary Ann Koty House (Brad), Rachel Diane Sease, Lucy Elizabeth Sease Edwards "Eliza" (Zack), Jackson Lee Sease, Thomas Lee Koty (Hailey Stewart, Fiancé); 3 great-grandchildren: Brooks Edwards, Julian Edwards, and Olivia Edwards. Also holding his memory in their hearts are his nephews, Jimmy, Bill, George, and Andy Walker.

A graveside service will be held at Crescent Hill Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Columbia, South Carolina, on November 1, 2025, at 3:00 PM. The legacy of Ernest Lee Koty Jr. will remain in the hearts of all who had the privilege to know him. The care of Mr. Koty has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home of Waynesville.