MURPHYSBORO – Billy Dean Lee

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Billy Dean Lee at his home in Murphysboro, IL, with his family by his side on July 2, 2024. He was 91 years old. He was a beloved Husband, Father, Grandfather and Professor. Billy was born in 1933 to John Lee and Blanch (Anderson) Lee. Billy served in the U.S. Army stateside during the Korean War 1953-1955. On June 4,1955, Billy married Joan Akers of Ava. The newlyweds moved to Peoria, Il, when he took a job at Caterpillar. While living in Peoria, Billy acquired a teaching degree in Industrial Science & Engineering and began teaching at Bradley University. During this time in Peoria, their children Paula, Kimberly, and Michael were born.

In 1971, Billy moved his family to Colorado. It was at this time Billy accepted a professorship at Colorado State University, where he was instrumental in the development of the emissions systems for motor vehicles that is widely used in the United States today.

In 1995, Billy and Joan retired to Ava, Il, and spent their lives there until Joan's death in 2004.

In June of 2005, Linda Williamson told Billy about a lady she knew named Beverly Easton. Billy drove straight to her house, knocked on her door and asked her on a date. They were engaged 3 weeks later and married in March 2005. They were married for 19 years until her passing just two and a half weeks before his.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Billy was a devoted family man. He cherished every moment spent with his loved ones, from family gatherings to quiet moments of wisdom shared with his grandchildren and great grandchildren. His kindness, humor, and unwavering support will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

He leaves behind a legacy of love, knowledge, and inspiration that will continue to resonate throughout the many lives he touched. Billy built a life to be proud of. He was a wonderful father and a spectacular grandpa.

Billy is survived by his children, Paula Wilkens, Michael Lee (Vicky), Kimberly Lee-Squires (Jeffrey), Sister Dixie Piskos (Joe), 10 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren. 2 stepdaughters, Kim (Roger) Kilpatrick and Robin (Neal) Luehr, 3 step-grandkids and 1 step-great grandson

A celebration of life is planned for September 14 12:00-4:00 at the Ava Community Building at Bowers Park (pot luck dishes welcome).