William “Bill” Montrose Lee

William “Bill” Montrose Lee of Helen passed away December 19, 2015 following a brief illness.  He was born November 21, 1917 in Anderson, Indiana and just celebrated his 98th birthday. 
  
Bill had a wonderful sense of humor that was with him always and made him a joy to be around.  In the 40’s he worked for American Airlines and then as a navigator for Pan American Airways and flew in the China Clipper Ships down to Central and South America.  He owned his own radio marine repair shop in Miami until retirement in 1982 when he and his wife moved to the beautiful North Georgia Mountains.  Bill loved his “Ham” radio from his early teen years and is an honorary lifetime member of the Gateway Radio Club. 
  
He is preceded in death by two sons (William Montrose (Monty) Lee, Jr., David Scott Lee both of Miami, FL, his parents, James Whitcomb and Esther Decker Lee and two brothers, James Whitcomb Lee, Jr. (FL) and George Lee (IN). 

Survivors include his wife of 71 years, Betty Scott Lee; daughter and son-in-law, Mary and Arnold Lasris, Helen; grandson, Daniel Lasris(Teresa), Bristol, VA; niece   Sue Bussart (Bob), Dahlonega and youngest brother Louis Decker Lee (FL). Special thanks go to his caring long time home caregivers and Lynn Percy who was always ready to verbally spar with him, much to his enjoyment. 

A private service will be held with burial at Yonah View Memorial Gardens. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to White County Backpack Buddies, 147 North Main Street, Cleveland, GA 30528. 

Barrett Funeral Home, Cleveland.