On Jan. 10, 2011, our little brother Douglas Paul Lee passed away in Columbia, Tenn.

Doug was born April 28, 1959, in Gardena, Calif., to Patricia Ruth and Clarke David (Mickey) Lee. He was their seventh child.

He was 51.

He was preceded in death by brothers Terry David Lee and Thomas Earl Lee.

He is survived by a sister Vicki Lee Tait of Elyria, Ohio; brothers T. Michael Lee of South Lake Tahoe, Patrick L. Lee of Hesperia, Calif., and Dennis C. Lee, of Idaho.

Doug grew up in Southern California and in Henryetta, Okla. He later lived in Kansas City, Mo. He quit school in the 10th grade, but was not satisfied with that outcome and at the age of 35 he received his GED in South Lake Tahoe in 1994.

While living in South Lake Tahoe he worked as a cook for Caesars Tahoe. He also played on Caesars softball team, which was one of his favorite times.

Doug was a military veteran as he served in the U.S. Army as a cook in the late-70s stationed among other places in Seoul, South Korea.

Doug was a huge sports fan, loving both baseball (Dodgers) and football (Rams and Kansas City Chiefs). He spent the last 12 years in and near Nashville, where he lived with his life partner Susan who he called, “The love of my life.”

I can attest Doug and his life were a whole lot better and successful with her in his life. Doug’s remains were cremated and when Susan passes their ashes will be interred together.

Doug wasn’t dealt the best cards in his troubled life, but God bless him he made the most of what he had. Doug was a loving, selfless individual who would try and help anyone if he could. He had his problems and he dealt with them, but he was one of the sweetest and most loving people who I have ever known. I miss my little brother more than you can ever imagine.

Until we meet again bro, Happy Trails.

— Dennis C. Lee