Marion L. Lee, 79     PORTLAND -- Marion L. Lee, 79, passed away on May 20, 2006 at her Noyes Street home.      She was born in Portland on Aug. 22, 1926 the daughter of Lamark and Edith (Carvel) Lee.     Marion attended Portland schools and graduated from Portland High School, Class of 1944.      Then, she served our country in the US Navy during the Korean Conflict. While working in communications, Marion was stationed in Washington, DC and Hawaii.      Her photograph was on all the recruiting poster nation-wide. During her service in Hawaii she had a small part in the movie Big Jim McLain starring John Wayne and James Arness. She also met Frank Sinatra who was filming From Here to Eternity.      Marion began her career as a jazz singer in nightclubs in Hawaii. She continued singing when she returned to Portland with several bands including Don Doane.      Then, Marion graduated from the Portland School of Art. She spent a year as a commercial artist in New York before returning to Portland and continuing her art with Owen Moore Department Store. Marion is credited with naming the Top of the East, the lounge on the top floor of the Eastland Park Hotel.     Marion devoted her life to caring for her mother until her death in 1997. She captured her mother perfectly in several portraits.     Marion will be remembered for her giving heart and compassionate listening ability. She loved animals, especially her cats Smoochie and Isaak.      Marion's family extends their gratitude to Lillian Mofenson for her special friendship.     She was predeceased by her parents; brother, George Lee; and nephew, Bob Hendricks.     Marion is survived by her sister, Helen Kotheimer of Louisville, Ky.; nephew, Gary Lee and his wife Jean of South Portland; niece, Deborah Lee Hendricks of Scarborough; niece, Andrea Lee of Saco; nephew, Craig Lee and his wife Beth of Windham; nephew, Joe Kotheimer of Louisville, Ky.; nephew Lee Kotheimer and his wife Nancy of Louisville, Ky.; and several cousins.      A graveside service will be held at 10a.m.. on Tuesday, May 23 at Brooklawn Memorial Park, Congress Street, Portland with the Rev. Philip Shearman officiating.      Memorial contributions may be made to the: Animal Refuge League, 449 Stroudwater St., Westbrook 04092