Marcus Daniel Lease

Marcus Daniel Lease, 38, of Williamsburg,VA passed away June 14, 2020. He was born April 14, 1982 in Elizabeth City, NC, to Daniel Franklin and Renee Presley Lease. Marcus attended Camden High School; Mid-Atlantic Christian University; graduated from University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill with a degree in Modern European History, 2004; Bunker Hill Community College, Boston MA with a Certificate in Object Oriented Computer Programming and Design, 2008; The Royal Danish Academy of Music, Copenhagen DK, with a Masters in Music Composition, 2016. Marcus worked as a software engineer for the last 12 years, first with Borral Ventures, Boston, MA. 2008-2013, and then with AsherGroup, Rodchester, NY. 2013-2020. Music was Marcus' passion. He played various instruments from childhood and added to his collection and mastery of them throughout his life. He enjoyed high school band and many informal “garage bands” with friends throughout high school and college, as well as, singing in several choral ensembles. Studying Music Composition, Orchestration, and Electroacoustics was a particular rewarding experience that allowed him to compose several compositions that were performed during his college studies. Whether through music, reading, learning, or travelling Marcus loved to challenge himself. This is especially evident in his desire to explore new places and ways of living. He spent extended time in Brazil and Copenhagen, Denmark, taking in the culture, food, and people. He also traveled to places in Spain, Italy, Finland, Sweden, Germany, and the Czech Republic. Marcus was never afraid of being uncomfortable or embarrassed, traits that helped him to learn several languages, such as German, Portuguese, and Dannish. Through his love of travel, music, and language he was able to make friends wherever he went and connect with people in deep and meaningful ways. Marcus was preceded in death by his brother, Michael D. Lease. He is survived by his parents, Daniel and Renee Lease; sibling, Finn Lease Boson (Crystal); sister-in-law, Becky Lease Thornton (Jason) and children, Ethan, Mia, and Elijah. A memorial service will be held July 25, 2020, at Towne South Church of Christ, 2224 Peartree Road, Elizabeth City, NC 27909, at 11 AM, with a reception afterwards. Marcus had a heart for those who may be hurting or in need. For the last few months of his life, he volunteered at House of Mercy, helping with food organization and distribution. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Marcus’s memory to Williamsburg House of Mercy at 10 Harrison Avenue, Williamsburg, VA 23185 or via their website, WilliamsburgHouseOfMercy.org. Please note “In Memory of Marcus Lease” on the donation memo line. All funds received will be used for COVID renovations for outdoor eating space for the homeless.

Marcus Daniel Lease

April 14, 1982 - June 14, 2020