Willie Joseph "Bill" Lee

Dr. Willie Joseph "Bill" Lee, 85, Hot Springs, Arkansas, died Monday December 27, 2010. He was born February 4, 1925, Magnolia, Arkansas to the late John & Nancy (Hammock) Lee. He is a graduate of the University of Arkansas and the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. At age 23 he became the youngest doctor in the state and served with the U.S. Army during the Korean War, after which he returned to Stamps, Arkansas where he practiced for 32 years. He was an avid supporter of the Arkansas Razorbacks and a member of the Bridge House for 20 years as well as being remembered as a gourmet cook. Bill was preceded in death by his first wife, of 35 years, Alice (Linton) Lee, sister Norma Walker and three brothers Fred, William and Robert Lee. He is survived by his wife of 27 years Jean (Ward) Lee; four children, Brad Lee & wife Judy of Garland, Texas, Nancy Harper & husband Barry of Portugal, Douglas Ward & wife Becky of Hot Springs, Ark., and Roger Ward & wife Barbie of Arkadelphia, Arkansas; nine grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. The family will celebrate Bill's life in a private memorial. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Bridge House. Cremation is under the direction of Caruth-Hale Funeral Home. Guests register at www.caruth-hale.com.