James Edward Lee Sr.

James “Ed” Edward Lee, 81, of Ocala, Florida, passed away peacefully on August 20, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. A proud veteran of the United States Coast Guard, he lived a vibrant life characterized by dedication and service.

Ed was born on April 15, 1945, in Cambridge, Massachusetts, to Robert Daniel and Kathleen Marie Lee, later moving to Billerica at the age of ten. He was the eldest of four children and is remembered by his sisters: Maureen Hoyt, Kathie Bavis, and Patti Casey.

On September 4, 1962, Ed answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Coast Guard. Stationed in Massachusetts, he served with distinction as a Seaman Apprentice (SA-E-2), embodying the Coast Guard motto, Semper Paratus (Always Ready). Following his honorable discharge in 1964, he married the love of his life, Ellen, in Billerica. Ed began his professional career as an installer for his father’s window, door, and siding business. His entrepreneurial spirit eventually led him to become an aluminum contractor and founder of Ed Lee Aluminum in Avon Park, Florida, where he built his family home. An avid bowler at Kegel Lanes, he was a dedicated sponsor of youth leagues and took great pride in achieving a "perfect" 300 game. In 1986, Ed and Ellen built their cherished retirement home in Lake Lure, North Carolina. His lifelong love for the water inspired him to start a pontoon business, where he spent many happy years navigating the lake with friends and clients. However, his most treasured moments were those spent on the water with his family.

Ed was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 62 years, Ellen Mary Lee, and his parents, Robert Daniel and Kathleen Marie Lee. He is survived by his children: Robert “Bobby” Lee (Elizabeth), James “Jimmy” Lee (Carylon), Colleen Pederson (Clay), and Jason Lee (Tiffany). 

His legacy also lives on through his eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

A celebration of life will be held at Hiers-Baxley Funeral Services in Ocala, Florida, at 11:00am on September 13, 2026. 

A military honors ceremony will follow at the Florida National Cemetery at 10:00am on September 14, 2026.