David Legge MBE, also affectionately known as Dave Lee, was an exceptionally accomplished and celebrated British comedian whose remarkable career left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry, with a specific focus on his extensive and iconic contributions to the realm of pantomimes, a beloved and enduring tradition in Kent, where he was widely regarded as a master of his craft.
A multifaceted individual, Lee's extensive television career was marked by a series of impressive performances, which not only demonstrated his remarkable comedic talents but also garnered widespread acclaim from a diverse viewership.
Beyond his remarkable professional achievements, Lee's extraordinary commitment to giving back to the community is a testament to his compassionate nature. He took the initiative to establish his own charitable organization, aptly named Happy Holidays, with a noble mission to positively impact the lives of underprivileged children.
Noteworthy philanthropist, Happy Holidays, embarked on a remarkable journey throughout his lifetime, amassing an astonishing £2 million in donations, which in turn, enabled a plethora of sick, disabled, and underprivileged children residing in Kent to partake in an array of delightful holidays and outings alongside their cherished families.
Lee's dedication to serving the community, unwavering and unrelenting, ultimately culminated in a prestigious recognition, as he was formally appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire, a distinction conferred upon him in the 2003 New Year Honours list.
The esteemed distinction bestowed upon Lee was merely the tip of the iceberg, as Canterbury revealed that he would be conferred the esteemed privilege of Freedom of the City on January 10, 2012, a remarkable achievement that further solidified his reputation as a trailblazing figure in his field.
Lee's life was tragically and prematurely brought to a close just a mere six days subsequent to his initial diagnosis, on January 16, 2012, due to the devastating and relentless progression of pancreatic cancer, a disease that ultimately claimed his life at the tender age of 64, leaving behind a legacy that would have continued to unfold had fate not intervened.
On the thirtieth day of January, in the year two thousand and twelve, a majestic and solemn funeral procession made its way through the hallowed halls of Canterbury Cathedral, attracting a diverse gathering of approximately one thousand two hundred individuals, comprising a cross-section of esteemed actors and renowned comedians.
Lee's remarkable life was marked by a profound sense of dignity and purpose, and his untimely passing did little to diminish the impact he had on the world around him.
As a tribute to his enduring legacy, the City bestowed upon him the highest honor it could offer, the Freedom of the City, a symbol of its deepest respect and admiration.
This extraordinary gesture served as a poignant reminder of Lee's immense contributions to the community, and the lasting impression he left on the lives of all who knew him.
Through his tireless efforts and unwavering dedication, Lee had earned the admiration and gratitude of countless individuals, and his posthumous award was a fitting tribute to his remarkable life and achievements.
The Freedom of the City, a prestigious honor reserved for those who have made a profound and lasting impact on the community, was a testament to Lee's enduring legacy and a reminder of the profound influence he had on the world around him.
In the years that followed, Lee's memory would continue to inspire and motivate others, a lasting tribute to his remarkable life and the extraordinary impact he had on the world.
As a testament to his extraordinary life and profound impact, a bronze statue of the distinguished individual was ceremoniously unveiled outside the Marlowe Theatre in May of the year 2014, thus perpetuating a lasting tribute to his remarkable accomplishments, a befitting recognition of his remarkable life.
