Myrna Colley-Lee is more than the former wife of Morgan Freeman. She is a talented costume designer, art lover, and cultural leader. Her story shines with creativity, quiet strength, and lasting impact. Though many people search for Myrna Colley-Lee net worth, what truly defines her is her artistic legacy and influence on African-American theatre and design.
Quick Bio Table of Myrna Colley-Lee
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Myrna Colley-Lee |
| Born | 1941 |
| Birthplace | Hamlet, North Carolina, USA |
| Age (2025) | 83–84 years old |
| Profession | Costume Designer, Art Curator, Philanthropist |
| Education | MFA in Scenic and Costume Design, Temple University |
| Famous For | Artistic legacy and marriage to actor Morgan Freeman |
| Spouse | Morgan Freeman (m. 1984 – div. 2010) |
| Notable Work | “Reflections: African American Life from the Myrna Colley-Lee Collection” |
| Residence | Charleston, Mississippi, USA |
| Awards | 2022 Mississippi Governor’s Arts Award |
| Net Worth (Estimated) | $170–$400 million (unconfirmed) |
| Known Traits | Grace, creativity, and contribution to African-American art |
Early Life and Education
Myrna Colley-Lee was born in 1941 in Hamlet, North Carolina. From a young age, she showed a love for art and storytelling. She studied art education at the Woman’s College of the University of North Carolina, now known as UNC–Greensboro. Later, she earned her MFA in scenic and costume design from Temple University. Her passion for colors, textures, and expression shaped her long career.
Career in Costume Design
After finishing her studies, Myrna Colley-Lee became a strong voice in Black theatre. She designed costumes that celebrated African-American culture, showing pride and elegance in every piece. Her designs appeared in many plays across the United States, including works at Goodman Theatre, Steppenwolf, and Cleveland Play House. Each costume told a story about life, identity, and history.
Artistic Style and Legacy
Her style was known for its attention to detail and authenticity. Myrna Colley-Lee used fabrics, patterns, and traditional influences that reflected her Southern roots. Through her art, she gave audiences a visual language that honored Black heritage. Her designs weren’t just clothes they were pieces of storytelling that helped actors bring their roles to life.
Curator and Collector
Beyond theatre, Myrna Colley-Lee became a respected art collector and curator. Her traveling exhibit, “Reflections: African American Life from the Myrna Colley-Lee Collection,” features paintings, photographs, and sculptures by famous Black artists like Romare Bearden and Elizabeth Catlett. This collection celebrates everyday African-American life and continues to travel across museums in the United States.
Teaching and Mentoring
Myrna Colley-Lee also spent many years mentoring young artists and students. She shared her knowledge of design and helped them find their own creative voice. Her influence can still be felt in art programs and theatre departments around the country. She believed that every story and every costume could inspire change and pride.
Life in Mississippi
After years of traveling, Myrna Colley-Lee made Mississippi her home. There, she continued to support the arts through local organizations. She served on the Mississippi Arts Commission, helping to promote community theatre, visual arts, and education. Her dedication earned her the Governor’s Arts Award for Excellence in Costume Design and Arts Patron in 2022 a symbol of her lifelong service.
Marriage to Morgan Freeman
In 1984, Myrna Colley-Lee married the well-known actor Morgan Freeman. The two shared a deep love for theatre and the arts. They lived quietly in Charleston, Mississippi, and were known for supporting local projects and community causes. The marriage lasted over 20 years and brought them both public attention as one of Hollywood’s respected couples.
Separation and Divorce
Unfortunately, Myrna Colley-Lee and Morgan Freeman separated in 2007 and officially divorced in 2010. Reports said that the divorce was private, and the financial settlement was sealed by the court. Because of that, no one knows the real Myrna Colley-Lee net worth after the divorce. Many online sources share estimates, but none are confirmed.
Myrna Colley-Lee Net Worth
Although some websites claim different numbers, Myrna Colley-Lee net worth is not officially public. Estimates often range between $170 million to $400 million, but these are only guesses. What is known is that she lived a comfortable and independent life after her divorce. Most of her wealth likely comes from her work, art collection, and possible settlement with Morgan Freeman.
Her Quiet Life After Divorce
After her split from Morgan Freeman, Myrna Colley-Lee stepped away from Hollywood’s spotlight. Instead, she focused on art, education, and philanthropy. She stayed in Mississippi, where she continued to design, curate, and donate to arts programs. Her private nature shows that she values purpose over fame, and that her identity goes far beyond being Morgan Freeman’s ex-wife.
Family and Personal Life
Myrna Colley-Lee and Morgan Freeman had no children together, but they helped raise E’Dena Hines, Freeman’s granddaughter. Hines was tragically killed in 2015, which deeply saddened both of them. Even through pain and loss, Myrna has continued to show grace and quiet strength choosing to live a meaningful, grounded life.
Myrna Colley-Lee Age and Health
In 2025, Myrna Colley-Lee age is about 83 or 84 years old. There have been no reports about her being ill or passing away. In fact, she remains active in community and cultural events. Many fans still admire her for aging gracefully and continuing to inspire through her art and philanthropy.
Impact on African-American Arts
The influence of Myrna Colley-Lee can be seen across generations of Black artists and designers. Her work gave visibility to Black history and Southern culture in a time when such stories were rarely told on stage. She opened doors for young designers to see theatre as a place where African-American beauty and life could shine.
Her Awards and Recognition
Over the years, Myrna Colley-Lee received many honors for her contributions to the arts. The Mississippi Governor’s Arts Award in 2022 recognized her decades of service and innovation in costume design. She has also been praised by the Mississippi Museum of Art and several universities for her lasting role in promoting cultural heritage.
Art Collection and “Reflections” Exhibit
Her exhibition, “Reflections: African American Life from the Myrna Colley-Lee Collection,” stands as a true reflection of her passion. It includes paintings, sculptures, and photos showing African-American families, churches, and communities. The show has traveled nationwide, helping people understand the depth of African-American creativity and tradition.
Myrna Colley-Lee Wikipedia and Online Searches
Many people search online for Myrna Colley-Lee Wikipedia, Myrna Colley-Lee biography, or Myrna Colley-Lee young photos to learn more about her. While her online presence is limited, verified sources like the Mississippi Arts Commission and museum records confirm her achievements. She keeps a low profile, which adds to her sense of dignity and mystery.
Myrna Colley-Lee’s Fashion Philosophy
For Myrna Colley-Lee, costume design is not only about clothes it’s about identity and storytelling. She once shared that every piece she created aimed to “honor the spirit of the character.” Her choices in fabrics and styles reflected African roots, Southern charm, and Black pride. Her legacy in design continues to influence costume students and theatre professionals today.
Philanthropy and Community Work
Apart from art and design, Myrna Colley-Lee supports community development and education. She has donated time and resources to theatre programs, art scholarships, and museums. Through her work on arts boards and local projects, she has inspired many young people to explore their creative gifts and stay proud of their heritage.
Myrna Colley-Lee and Morgan Freeman: Their Shared Vision
Though their marriage ended, Myrna Colley-Lee and Morgan Freeman once shared a vision for promoting the arts in Mississippi. They supported several cultural projects and youth programs. Together, they showed that fame could be used for positive change. Even after their divorce, both have continued to help artists and communities grow.
Rumors and Respect
Over time, Myrna Colley-Lee has faced unwanted rumors about her personal life. However, she has never answered gossip or controversy. Instead, she keeps her focus on her work and values. Her grace under pressure has earned her respect from both fans and peers. She shows that dignity and silence can be powerful forms of strength.
Legacy in Education and Theatre
Myrna Colley-Lee’s name appears in art and design history books, especially those celebrating Black women in theatre. Her costume collections at Mississippi State University continue to educate new designers. Her influence reaches far beyond the stage, reminding people that art can preserve memory, culture, and emotion.
Myrna Colley-Lee Granddaughter and Family Connection
Her relationship with her step-granddaughter E’Dena Hines was deeply important to her. Even though tragedy struck, she has kept Hines’s memory alive through her quiet acts of love and remembrance. Myrna Colley-Lee remains connected to her extended family and continues to support them privately.
Current Life and Continuing Influence
Today, Myrna Colley-Lee lives a peaceful life surrounded by art, books, and memories. She continues to inspire artists through her example of commitment, education, and excellence. Her legacy reminds everyone that creativity can be a lifelong journey, and that art can heal, teach, and unite people.
Myrna Colley-Lee Death Rumors
Sometimes, online rumors claim that Myrna Colley-Lee has passed away. These stories are false. There are no credible reports or obituaries confirming such news. She remains alive, active, and respected in the art community. These fake stories show how misinformation spreads online, but true admirers focus on her real work and impact.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is Myrna Colley-Lee?
Myrna Colley-Lee is an American costume designer, art curator, and philanthropist known for her major influence in Black theatre and the arts.
2. What is Myrna Colley-Lee’s net worth?
There are no official figures, but estimates suggest Myrna Colley-Lee net worth could range between $170 million and $400 million after her divorce from Morgan Freeman.
3. How old is Myrna Colley-Lee?
Myrna Colley-Lee was born in 1941, making her about 83 or 84 years old in 2025.
4. Was Myrna Colley-Lee married to Morgan Freeman?
Yes. Myrna Colley-Lee married Morgan Freeman in 1984. They separated in 2007 and divorced in 2010.
5. What is Myrna Colley-Lee known for besides her marriage?
She is best known for her costume design work, her art collection “Reflections: African American Life,” and her long-time service to arts organizations in Mississippi.
Conclusion
Myrna Colley-Lee has lived a life full of creativity, strength, and purpose. Her career as a costume designer and arts supporter shows how art can tell stories that last for generations. Though people often search for Myrna Colley-Lee net worth or Myrna Colley-Lee age, what truly matters is her legacy the colors, stories, and spirit she has brought into the world. Her name stands as a symbol of grace, culture, and quiet power.
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