William Douglas Lee Jr.

William Douglas "Billy" Lee, Jr. of Chapin, South Carolina, passed away on November 7, 2026, at his home surrounded by family. Born in Columbia, SC on January 14, 1943, he grew up in West Columbia and graduated from Brookland-Cayce High School in 1961. He later attended Midlands Technical College and served in the US. Navy.

Billy worked for Mt. Vernon Mills before becoming a partner and owner of ASW American Solid Woven Textile Mill in Columbia. Outside of work, he enjoyed traveling and cruising, exploring new places and savoring fine foods. Music brought him great joy, and he had a deep appreciation for antiques taking pleasure in finding special pieces to add to his extensive collection.

He was predeceased by his parents, William Douglas Lee, Sr and Dorothy Mills Lee Roof; his maternal grandparents, Osbon James Mills, Sr. and Eunice Sears Mills; and his paternal grandparents, Lonnie Ezekiel Lee and Emily Pearl Kleckley Lee.

He is survived by his loving and caring partner, Shelly Bedell Williams, of Chapin, SC; his devoted sister, Barbara Lee Kohn (Henry), of Myrtle Beach, SC; nephews, Michael Bryan Kohn (Jessica), of Chapin, SC and Nicholas Lee Kohn (Marissa) of New York, NY; great nephews, Oliver Henry Kohn, Max Edward Kohn, August Lee Kohn and Sullivan Nicholas Kohn and his favorite aunt, Alice Mills Hendrix, and many cousins.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Robin Ann Hendricks and the caregivers of Interim Hospice, especially Michelle Smith and Jamie Boles, for their kindness and compassionate care. Special appreciation is also extended to Frances "Frankie" Haygood for her love, compassion and devoted care of Billy.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, November 11, 2026 from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Caughman-Harman Funeral Home, 503 North Lake Drive, Lexington, SC 29072. At Billy's request, no service will be held.