William “Ralph” Lee, Jr. was born to William Ralph Lee, Sr. and Laura Hines, on July 23, 1939, in Indianapolis, Indiana.  Ralph attended Crispus Attucks High School, studied C.A.D. drafting and graduated in 1956. He enlisted in the U.S. Marine Crops after high school, served the Vietnam War in 1967 – 1968, was honorably discharged in 1970. After leaving the military, Ralph pursued a career in automotive services and is most known for his automotive excellence. He married his childhood friend, Ida B. Bates on February 9, 1963 and had 5 children. Later, he married Barbara J. Dearmon on November 22, 1984, where they raised their 2 children and 3 step-children in Indianapolis, IN. He leaves his legacy to 10 children; Veronica Lee-Norris (Preston), Karen Lee, Morris Lee, Susan Lee-Wright (Andre), Stephanie Hudgens (Brian), William Lee III, John Lee (Kara), Michael Astumian (Heather), Kristinia Astumian, Kimberley Kennebrew, and a host of grandchildren, great grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild.

Ralph also leaves to cherish his memory to his siblings; Morris “Uncle Wink” Lee, Rena (Lee) Tavaglione, James Lee, William “Uncle Tony” Lee, Rochelle Lee, and a host of nieces and nephews. He was proceeded in death by his Great-great mother Maggie Starr, his father Ralph Sr, mother Laura Hines, wife Barbara J. Dearman, and Granddaughter Maurrissa Lee.

Ralph was passionate about serving the Lord where he was a member of Faith Fellowship Apostolic Church under the leading of Pastor Kenny Floyd and was a key pillar of strength in the community.  Wherever Ralph went, he met no strangers. He would encourage everyone he met to trust God to get them through life’s trouble. One of his quotes was “If you’re going to worry, don’t pray. But if you pray, don’t worry!” Everyone in the community knew they could call on Ralph, especially for their automotive troubles. He would stop what he was doing to assist anyone who was in trouble. There was never a time when you called on Ralph that he would not be there, no matter the time of day or night.  He will be greatly missed.

#Have a blessed day! #Bye-ya Bye-ya!