Billy Edward Lee passed away peacefully at his home on August 7, at the age of 95. Billy was born January 7, 1929 in Wright City, MO to the late William A. and Lydia Lee nee Krueger.
Billy was a lifelong member of Immanuel UCC Wright City. He served his country in the United States Army from 1951 to 1956 where he was stationed in Germany. When coming back from service Billy went to work for Binkley Company in Warrenton in the sheet metal department. Billy learned to play the fiddle at a young age, the very first tune he learned to play was "You are my Sunshine" at around the age 9. In 1961 Billy formed the band called the "The Tune Twisters" and was very well known in eastern Missouri. In 1976 Billy decided it was time to retire from the hectic pace of steady work in the dance halls. At the time he was a professional auctioneer where he auctioneered for 40 years and he worked on building up his instrument repair business. Billy was a master craftsman where he made furniture, fiddles and mandelions. Billy was dearly loved by his friends and family and will be dearly missed.
Billy is survived by his step-daughter, Karen Brink of Independence; two step-sons, Keith (Maggie) Higginbotham of Odessa, Kent Higginbotham of Warrenton; special friends, Paul and Janice Biermann. He is preceded in death by his parents; and wife, Mary Elizabeth Lee nee Karrenbrock.
Visitation for Mr. Billy Lee will be held Thursday, August 15, from 5 P.M. to 8 P.M. at Pitman Funeral Home in Wright City. Funeral Service will be Friday, August 16, at Pitman Funeral Home in Wright City. Interment to follow in Wright City Cemetery, Wright City. In lieu of flowers memorials can be made to Warren County Historical Society, Immanuel UCC, or Heartland Hospice in care of Pitman Funeral Home.
