Michael Lee Biography

Michael Lee began serving on the County Board of Supervisors in 2014 after the passing of his brother, and then Supervisor, Harvey Lee. He was elected in 2015 and re-elected in 2019, unopposed. In 2022, he was elected by his peers to serve as President of the Board of Supervisors, a position he has held once before.

As Supervisor, Michael Lee represents 41,000 residents of District 5, including Hernando, Bridgetown, Lewisburg, Nesbit, Cockrum, and sections of Southaven and Olive Branch. Michael serves on numerous DeSoto County committees, including Building & Permits, Courthouse Renovation, Disaster Management, Fire/EMA, Internet Crimes Against Children, Transportation, and Parks and Greenways

Before public office, Michael spent 19 years serving the people of DeSoto County as a law enforcement officer with both the Hernando Police Department and DeSoto County Sheriff’s Department.  

Michael attended the Mississippi Law Enforcement Training Academy in Peral, Mississippi, is a certified law enforcement officer, and small business owner.

As a deputy and then Assistant Chief at the DeSoto County Sheriff Department, Michael was instrumental in the development of DeSoto County’s first SWAT team and motorcycle patrol unit. He also served as a Commander of Patrol, Commander of Metro Narcotics, Chief Investigator, Jail Administrator, and Program Educator.  He helped lead and implement the "Be A Winner Program" in DeSoto County Schools. He also promoted and trained volunteers for reserve and neighborhood watch programs.

Michael’s unmatched work ethic extends far beyond public service and law enforcement. He is also the successful owner of a local Hernando business, Town Square Hair Cuts, following in the footsteps of his father.

Michael Lee was born on February 22, 1962, to his parents, Joane and Wayne Lee. Raised in rural DeSoto County, Michael was taught faith in God and the small-town values of hard work and responsibility.

Michael was a high-achieving student and stand out athlete in football and track during his years at Hernando High School. After high school, Michael went on to attend Northwest Mississippi Community College where he and his team led the Rangers to the 1982 National and State Championships under then head football coach Bobby Franklin.  

He is the father of five children and eight grandchildren. He lives in Hernando with his wife Mary Helen and his mother Mrs. Joane.