Co-founder of Red Lobster and the first CEO of Darden Restaurants
Joe R. Lee, co-founder of Red Lobster and the first CEO of Darden Restaurants, died on Oct. 12 2025 at the age of 85. JOE R. LEE, Retired Chairman and CEO of Darden Restaurants, Inc., which owns and operates restaurant chains. Mr. Lee retired from his position at Darden Restaurants, Inc. in 2005. Mr. Lee serves as a director of SunTrust Bank of Central Florida, N.A. Term expired 2009.First elected: 1996.
