Kenny Chesney Mourns Loss Of “Sweet Friend”

Kenny Chesney / Instagram

The country music community is in mourning following the death of one of its beloved members.

Lisa Lee served as the senior vice president of Creative and Content Production at the Academy of Country Music. Prior to working for the ACM, Lee worked for CMT and TNN (The Nashville Network).

The ACM paid tribute to Lee following her death. Next to a photo of Lee, the ACM wrote, “She was part of the heart and soul of the Academy for 15 years, and Country Music is better for having her in it.”

Over the years, Lee developed strong relationships with a number of country artists. One artist who was devastated to hear about her death was Deana Carter.

The “Strawberry Wine” singer penned a touching tribute to Lee on Instagram:

“You don’t have to see people everyday to be impacted by their incredible presence,” Carter wrote. “This amazing soul was one of those for me. My heart is broken today. Thank you @lisafayelee for all of your love & support, your amazing laugh & for always lighting the way with your beautiful smile.“

 

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A post shared by Deana Carter (@deanatunes)

Another artist who mourned Lee’s death was Kenny Chesney. He called Lee a “sweet friend” in a heartbreaking tribute he wrote on his own social media pages.

Chesney shared his message alongside a photo of him and Lee sharing an embrace while he kissed her on the forehead: 

“Lisa Lee and I grew up together in this business,” Chesney said. “She was a tv reporter, producer, writer and big executive She covered my heroes and my friends, she wrote about me and my mother, She truly cared about country music – and I absolutely cared about her. Good-bye, my sweet friend.”

Several other artists commented on Chesney’s tribute to Lee on Instagram.  Jake Owen wrote, “Loved that sweet lady,” while Little Big Town‘s Karen Fairchild said, “She was the best.”

Read Chesney’s tribute to Lee and see the sweet photo he shared of the two of them below.

Our hearts go out to Lee’s family, friends, and loved ones during this sad time. May she rest in peace.