Levan “Lee” King II, 53, of Knoxville, Tennessee, formerly of Benham, Kentucky, passed away unexpectedly on October 11, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of memories, a proud legacy of military service, and a family who loved him dearly.

Born on March 3, 1973, Lee grew up in the mountains of Eastern Kentucky, where his roots remained an important part of his life. He attended Benham School from kindergarten through eighth grade before continuing his education at Cumberland High School. During his high school years, Lee served as drum captain in the school band, demonstrating his love for music, leadership, and the friendships that would stay with him throughout his life.

A proud United States Marine, Lee honorably served his country as a corporal (E-4) and aviation mechanic. During his military career, he served with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 263 (HMM-263) and the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, including time aboard the USS Kearsarge and USS Wasp. His service included Operation Deny Flight and other significant military operations. His years in the Marine Corps were a defining chapter of his life, and the title of Marine was one he carried with pride.

Beyond his military service, Lee was a father, husband, grandfather, son, brother, and friend. He faced life’s challenges with determination, and the relationships he built throughout his life became an important part of the legacy he leaves behind.

One of those relationships was his extraordinary lifelong friendship with Gregory Royce. Friends since kindergarten, Lee and Greg grew up together and eventually joined the United States Marine Corps together. Their friendship endured through the years, becoming a brotherhood that extended far beyond their time in uniform. Greg was not simply Lee’s best friend; he was family.

Lee is survived by his three children, Michael King (Racheal), Kimberly King (Jessica), and Baylee King (Ethan); his bonus daughter, Crista Caesar; and his six beloved grandchildren, James, Jason, Tevin, Cheyenne, Wyatt, and Winnona. As well as family friend Kelli Gaines.

He is also lovingly remembered by Michelle King, the mother of his children, with whom he shared the joys and responsibilities of raising their family.

Lee is further survived by his father, Lee King Sr., and stepmother, Vicky King, of Jacksonville, Florida; his mother, Cheryl Lunsford, of Middlesboro, Kentucky; his sisters, Christa (Ray) Cornett of Middlesboro, Kentucky, and Desa King of Jacksonville, Florida; and his brother, Kendall King of Jacksonville, Florida.

He also leaves behind his beloved sister, Renee Valentine King, and her husband, Preston Valentine, of Jacksonville, Florida. reflecting the close family bonds Lee cherished.

Lee was preceded in death by his special Friend Cristina Casar, his stepsister, April Boggs; his beloved aunt, Pauline (King) Owens; his niece, Star Hardigree; his maternal grandparents, Robert and Wanda Lunsford; and his paternal grandparents, Edd and Goldie King.

Lee’s passing leaves a tremendous void in the lives of those who knew and loved him. Yet his memory will live on through his children and grandchildren, the stories shared by family and friends, and the lasting impact he made on those fortunate enough to have known him.

Though his earthly journey has ended, the love he gave, the memories he created, and the legacy he leaves behind will endure for generations.

Semper Fidelis. Once a Marine, Always a Marine.

Visitation will be Wednesday, October 21, 2026, from 12 pm until the funeral hour. His funeral will begin at 2 pm with the Reverend Greg Gluck officiating. Interment will follow at the Westlawn Cemetery in Cumberland with family and friends serving as pallbearers. Military honors will be performed at the cemetery.

Tri City Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Levan “Lee” King II.