About Us

While attending East High School Wayne T. Lee, Jr. would look out the classroom window and could see the funeral processions of local area funeral homes go by on the way to nearby cemeteries.  This drew his curiosity and was the spark that created the conception of Wayne T. Lee Funeral Service in his mind. 

This establishment started with a dream and very little resources, and in June 1980 with Wayne T. Lee, Jr. being only 26 years old, the doors officially opened at its current and only location, 1370 East Main Street.  Traditionally the African American Funeral Home was mostly passed down from generation to generation as a family owned business.  Wayne T. Lee Funeral Service however proved to be unique in that it was a first-generation funeral home.  

Back during the 80’s, Main Street was a relatively depressed area but the erection of a newly constructed modern facility took great foresight and vision and was the catalyst for other business opportunities in the neighborhood.  It started the revitalization of this community. Today Wayne T. Lee Funeral Service encompasses an entire city block in a flourishing and upcoming gateway to downtown Columbus.  

Wayne T. Lee Funeral Service was also innovative as it opened with the notion to offer families affordable services that honored their loved one with dignity and respect, regardless of financial circumstance.  Wayne T. Lee, Jr. said “We have a funeral service for everybody and every family.” “We don’t turn anybody down or turn anybody away.” Many said he would not be in business long initially if continuing to offer the lowest funerals in town at only $699.  He did not agree with these skeptics and said “We strive to keep strict control over costs and expenses.  I don’t think it will break us, but help us and save money for our families we serve”  We maintain that mission today. 

On December 8, 1991 the Mansfield Ohio Chapel held its Open House and Dedication as the second location of Wayne T. Lee Funeral Service.  There he served the Greater Mansfield Community for several years. 

We are proud to boast that our entire staff are Christians and very active in their churches which fosters the moral, honest, trustworthiness, and integrity of the Wayne T. Lee Funeral Service & Staff. 

I am thankful for the success of the past and am looking forward to the successes of the future.

The caring and experienced professionals at Wayne T. Lee Funeral Service are here to support you through a difficult time.  We offer a range of custom and personalized services to suit your family’s wishes and requirements.  You can count on us to help you plan a personal, lasting tribute to your loved one.  We’ll carefully guide you through the many decisions that must be made during a challenging time.

You are welcome to call us at 614 253-7944 at any time of the day, any day of the week, for immediate personal assistance.  Or, visit our funeral home in person at your convenience.  We also provide a wealth of information here on our website so you can learn more from the privacy of your own home.