Life Story / Obituary
Everett Lee Ingalls III, known to family and friends as Lee, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, July 13, 2025. His sudden loss has left an indescribable emptiness in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
Lee is survived by his son, Everett Lee Ingalls IV, and his partner, Sarah Dykstra, of Denver, Colorado; his friend and former wife, Jimi Ingalls; his mother, Sandy Ingalls, of Albany, Texas; his siblings Wendy DeSautel and husband Albert DeSautel (children Dylan Voirin and Ethan DeSautel) of Fort Worth, Texas; Jen McMahon and husband Clancy McMahon (children Liam and Grace McMahon) of Natural Dam, Arkansas; and Chris Ingalls and wife Deborah Ingalls (children Joshua, Noah, and Emma Ingalls) of Canton, Georgia. He was preceded in death by his father, Everett Lee Ingalls II, who passed away in August of 2013.
Lee spent more than 30 years as an accomplished IT and technical services professional. His work spanned industries from manufacturing to finance, where he used technology not only to solve problems but also to improve lives. With leadership roles in systems design, network security, business process improvement, and financial administration, Lee was known for his intelligence, work ethic, and commitment to doing things right.
Coach, Mentor, and Role Model:
Eventually Lee stepped away from the world of IT to fully dedicate himself to his greatest passion: coaching. What began as a part-time commitment quickly became his true calling, and he poured his energy and heart into building athletes and programs across West Michigan.
Lee’s passion lived on the field. For over 15 years, he dedicated himself to coaching lacrosse and football at Fruitport, Mona Shores, Grand Haven High School, Jenison High School, and West Side Lacrosse. As a defensive coordinator and head coach, he made a lasting impact on countless young athletes.
Lee wasn’t a quiet presence. He was bold, vocal, and unwavering. He led with a firm voice, a strong presence, and a deep belief in discipline, grit, and accountability. He demanded the best from his players, not just to win games but to shape them into resilient, capable young men. He didn’t sugarcoat the truth, and that’s why his players respected him. He challenged them, pushed them, and stood by them. Not for recognition but because he genuinely cared. He understood that coaching was about more than the scoreboard. It was about building character and preparing kids for life beyond the field.
To his family, Lee was a steady rock, thoughtful, witty, and dependable. He gave generously of his time and talent, and he took great pride in being there for the people he loved. He was a loyal friend and, most of all, a loving father, son, and brother.
Though we are devastated by his loss, we are comforted by the legacy he leaves behind in the lessons he taught, the lives he touched, and the love he gave so freely.
Celebration of Life: Lee’s family is deeply grateful for the outpouring of love and support from his friends, former colleagues, and all who knew him. A memorial service will be held at a later date, and details will be shared once finalized. In the meantime, we invite you to share your favorite photos, stories, and memories of Lee. We’d love to see and hear the ways he touched your lives; your posts bring comfort and help us celebrate the incredible person he was.