Deceased January 8, 2018

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In Memory

Scott Lea passed away on Jan. 8, 2018.

Scott graduated with a B.A. from Amherst College and an M.B.A. from The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. It was his honor to serve in the U.S. Army Counter Intelligence Corps from 1954-1957 and his good fortune to find his wife of 53 years, Marilyn Blair Lea, while they were both in Germany during this time. He started his career in packaging in 1959 with Riegel Paper Corporation, later to become Rexham, where he served as president, CEO and chairman of the Board until retirement. During his career, he enjoyed the relationships he formed while serving on a number of Boards of Directors, including Quantum Chemical, W.R. Bonsal, North American Philips, PCA International Inc., Wachovia, Speizman Industries, Cape Fear Rod Company and Lance Inc. While on the board for Lance, he served as chairman from 1996 to 1999.

Twenty-five years on the Board of Trustees for Johnson C. Smith University, serving on the board of the NC Zoological Society and the CPCC Foundation offered opportunities to share his experience with institutions he held in high regard.

While Scott was a natural leader, advisor and coach in business and the community, his favorite role was as leader of his family. No athletic pursuit, academic endeavor, fishing trip or hunt occurred without adequate and detailed “coaching.” His philosophy of “work hard and play hard” resulted in a lifetime of fantastic family trips, often with extended family. He and his family enjoyed decades of sport fishing on his boat. His motto of “If a little bit is good, a lot is better!” was a constant source of amusement and fun. For many years he enjoyed friendships at Carmel Country Club and Quail Hollow Club in Charlotte and Yeamans Hall Club in Charleston.

He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Marilyn, and is survived by the recipients of his love and guidance, Scott C. Lea Jr. of Greenville, S.C.; Nancy Lea Williams (Richard) of Charlotte; Mark S. Lea ’86 (Jennifer) of Mt. Pleasant, S.C.; and six grandchildren

In remembering Scott, we honor a man of discipline, integrity and devotion to his family and friends, who was guided by his faith.

Mark Lea ’86