Carl Lee Jr. believed strongly in education and dedicated much of his time and energy to raising money to support educational opportunities for young people. His commitment to education, community, and the organizations he served became an important part of the legacy he left behind.

A graduate of Texas A&M University and a member of the 12th Man Club, Carl carried his Aggie pride throughout his life. Professionally, he served as a Superintendent with Tellepsen Construction, building a career in an industry that reflected the leadership and determination for which he was known.

Carl's involvement with the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo spanned many decades and ultimately earned him the distinction of Lifetime Rodeo Director. His service included involvement with the School Art Committee, Corral Club Committee, and Steer Auction Committee, and he was also a member of the High Bidders.

Carl was a longtime member of the Hold ’Em & Hit ’Em Club (HHC) and was deeply involved in the HLSR cook-off and cook offs in the Gulf Coast area. He is remembered as the founder of the Trail Riders Cook Team, served as a Cook-Off Judge, and was credited with managing the Sundown Saloon in Houston, Texas where numerous committee meetings, cook off meetings and HHC meetings were held. Through these organizations, events, and friendships, Carl devoted countless hours of leadership and raising money for education and helping carry forward traditions that have benefited generations of young people.

The Rack to the Future 9-Ball Charity Classic is proudly dedicated to the memory and legacy of Carl Lee Jr. As we raise money for youth and education, we continue a cause that Carl supported for many years and honor the spirit of service and fellowship that was such an important part of his life.

But Carl's place in Rack to the Future will not end with this year's tournament.

For as long as Rack to the Future continues as an annual tournament, the name and legacy of Carl Lee Jr. will continue with it. Each year that we gather to compete, raise money, and create educational opportunities for young people, we will remember the man whose example helped inspire the purpose behind what we are doing.

We will never forget Carl Lee Jr. Through Rack to the Future, his name, his contributions, and his legacy will carry on.

Carl’s legacy continues through his family as well. His son, Troy, and stepson, Robert Chambers, have carried forward many of the commitments that were such an important part of Carl’s life. Both are strongly dedicated members of the Hold ’Em & Hit ’Em Club, both have been deeply involved with the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo and The Corral Club, and together they lead the Trail Riders Cook Team. In many ways, Troy and Robert have picked up where Carl left off—continuing his tradition of friendship, service, and giving back to the community.