William James Lee

WILLIAM JAMES LEE, the oldest son of the late Stiner Ann and Roealius Hardy Lee, was born September 29, 1925 in Johnson County, NC. He departed this life on January 1, 2006. At age five, William and his family moved to Baltimore, MD where he was educated in the public school system. After trade school, he joined the Navy and served his country for several years. Upon completion of his tour of duty, William began his working career functioning in various positions. Although he was an excellent and well-respected employee, William wanted to accomplish more for himself and his family so he embarked on his journey of entrepreneurship. Fulfilling his desire to become a self-made man, Buddy as he was so affectionately known, owned and operated a submarine shop, a corner convenience store, a used tools sales business and rental properties best known as the garages. After retiring from his twenty-two year career with Potts and Callahan Construction Co., and selling his personal ventures, Buddy still remained active as a parking garage attendant for Bank of America in Downtown Baltimore. He continued his employment until recent years when his health began to fail. He had a great love for music, especially jazz. Like father, like son, Buddy began playing the saxophone and pursued professional training. He was always willing to play a little something at family gatherings whenever he was asked. His love for family was more than evident, Buddy entered into marriage three times. First to Yvonne Lee, secondly to Sylvia Lee and lastly to Norrline Johnson-Lee, and all three wives preceded him in death. From two of the unions, six children were born/adopted. With Sylvia, he fathered three sons, Melvin, Kevin and William Lee, Jr. With Norrline, he adopted Danielle, Vicki and Tavon Lee. Buddy was a very gentle, kind and loving man who enjoyed life to its fullest. He gave from his heart to all he loved and befriended. He rarely said no, it was always "I can't promise now, but let me see what I can do." He was a man of his word and always came through. A committed and active family man, he seemed to sparkle with joy the most when watching his loved ones at family gatherings. He accepted Christ as his Savior at a young age and worshiped at Calvary Baptist Church on Garrison Blvd. where he was a very active member. On November 8, 1997 he, Norrline and their three children joined Pleasant Rock Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Timothy Loftin, where he attended until his health began to fail. To cherish his loving memory he leaves: two daughters, Danielle and Vicki Lee; one son, Tavon Lee; two daughters-in-law, Sharon and Shirley Lee; six grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; one brother, Edward Lee; four sisters, Nova Curley, Clevis Gamble, Lurl Johnson and Doris Adams; four brothers-in-law (of which Norris Michael Johnson was chosen to represent the family's business); five sisters-in-law (of which Morrline Johnson-Harden was chosen to be the guardian of the adopted children); one aunt, Elizabeth Mae Heath of North Carolina; nieces, nephews and a host of other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by three wives, three sons, one granddaughter, and one sister.

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William James Lee

September 29, 1925 - January 1, 2006