Robert Boyd Lee Sr.

Robert Boyd Lee, Sr., 81, of Lakewood Ranch, FL, passed away on Thursday, September 3, 2026, at his home, surrounded by loving family. Born in Peoria, IL, on January 14, 1945, he was the son of the late Horace Lee and Mary R. Gaines. On March 6, 1999, he married Judith E. Little. Throughout his life, Robert was known for his strength, determination, sense of humor, and deep love for family and friends. He lived a life marked by service, hard work, lifelong learning, and a genuine passion for helping others.

Robert leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories that will continue to live on through those who knew him. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend whose presence touched many lives.

Education:

Graduated from Manual High School in Peoria, Illinois, in 1965.

Attended Illinois Central College (ICC).

He earned degrees in:

-General Education

-Police Science

-Mass Communication

-Achieved academic excellence by earning recognition on both the President's List and Dean's List.

Military Service:

-Enlisted in the United States Marine Corps after beginning his career at Caterpillar.

-Served during the Vietnam War.

-Stationed with the 32nd String at the Naval Station in San Diego, California.

-Earned his first stripe during boot camp.

-Served as a Squad Leader.

-Attained the rank of Lance Corporal.

-Served as Military Police.

-Demonstrated leadership, discipline, and dedication throughout his military service.

Career Accomplishments:

-Began his professional career at Caterpillar as a Machine Operator.

-Returned to Caterpillar following military service, where the company had held his position for him.

-Served as a Police Officer with the Peoria Police Department for several years.

-Worked for Commonwealth Edison in Pekin, Illinois, for 17 years, serving as:

-Safety Trainer

-Mechanical Maintenance Supervisor

-Later transferred to the Dresden Nuclear Power Plant near Chicago, Illinois.

-Retired from Commonwealth Edison in 1996.

Media and Community Involvement:

-Worked as a Cameraman and Crew Member for WTVP-PBS Television Station.

-Met Pekin astronaut Scott Altman while working at the station.

-Announced the campaign of Principal Palmer at the Old State Capitol Building.

-Was hired by Bud Boyles to assist with campaign efforts.

-Enjoyed capturing special moments through photography and videography.

-Filmed weddings, church events, and numerous community and social gatherings.

Faith and Church Involvement:

-Was a faithful member of City of Refuge Church.

-Used his talents in photography and videography to serve the church and preserve special memories for others.

-Believed strongly in faith, family, and living a life of purpose.

Family and Life Journey:

-In 2009, Robert and his beloved wife, Judy Lee, relocated from Peoria, Illinois, to Wilmington, North Carolina.

-They enjoyed 17 years in Wilmington before relocating to Florida in 2026.

-Robert treasured spending time with family and creating lasting memories with those he loved.

Favorite Sayings:

-"Anything worth doing, do it right the first time."

-"It's better to be patient than to become a patient."

-"Guess what? I LOVE YOU MAN!"

Favorite Scripture:

"With long life will I satisfy him, and show him My salvation." — Psalm 91:16

Robert is survived by his beloved wife of 27 years, Judy Lee; stepmother, Nadine Lee; and mother-in-law, Berniece Little-Williams. He also leaves to cherish his memory his three sons, Robert Lee Jr., Marc Lee of Peoria, Illinois, and Kenji Mack of The Netherlands; and his stepchildren, Tabitha Johnson and Brad Johnson of St. Louis, Missouri, and Charlotte Simpson of Lakewood Ranch, Florida. He is also survived by his brothers: Bobby (Paula) Rutherford of Grand Prairie, Texas; Michael (Donna) Rutherford, Timothy Lee, and Corey (Marcina) Lee, all of Peoria, Illinois; Dean (Marcella) Rutherford of Madison, Tennessee; and Benard Lee and Dennis Lee, both of California. He leaves behind his sisters: Gail Lee of Wilmington, North Carolina; Freida Peary of Stockbridge, Georgia; Debra (Tim) Lee-Goodwin of Colorado Springs, Colorado; Nancy Gayles, Becky Rutherford, and Bridgette (Carey) Stuckey, all of Peoria, Illinois.

Robert was blessed with nine grandchildren and six great-grandchildren, along with a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and dear friends who will forever treasure the memories they shared with him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Horace Lee and Mary R. Gaines; two sisters, Constance Moody and Pamela Lee; three brothers, Horace Lee Jr., Ronnie Lee, and Mark Rutherford; two nieces, Kimberly Lee and Kristina Rutherford; and one nephew, Breon Rutherford.

Robert's life was a testament to service, perseverance, faith, and love. Though words cannot fully express the impact he made on those around him, his memory will continue to be a source of comfort, strength, and inspiration. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Visitation will take place on Monday, September 14, 2026, at Davison-Fulton Woodland Chapel, from 9:30 a.m. until the time of service at 10:30 a.m. Interment will take place at Camp Butler National Cemetery in Springfield at 1:00 p.m. with full military honors. Condolences and memories may be shared through Davison-Fulton.com