Billy Garrison Coley

Billy Garrison Coley, Sr., affectionately known as Bill, passed away peacefully on November 28, 2024, in Ponte Vedre, Florida. Born on January 12, 1935, in Newton, North Carolina, Bill was a beloved patriarch and a visionary entrepreneur whose influence in the furniture industry leaves a lasting legacy. As the founder of Lee Industries, a furniture company that he started in 1969, Bill's commitment to quality and craftsmanship, coupled with his unwavering belief in "Made in the U.S.A.," set a standard that continues to inspire. His dedication to creating timeless designs and fostering a family-oriented company culture has left a lasting effect on the industry.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Mattie Cleo Curlee Coley and William Garrison Coley, his brother Harrill Curlee Coley, his first wife Dorcas (Dottie) Bolick Coley, his son Norman Bolick Coley, and his grandson John (JC) Collett III. He is survived by his wife, Laura Orsborn Coley, and his children: Billy Garrison Coley Jr. and wife Clair, daughter in law Bondilyn (Bondi) VanEtten Coley, Mary Virginia(Ginny) Coley Collett and husband John, and Susanne Marie Coley McMillan and husband Tom. His legacy continues through his cherished grandchildren: Garrison Coley (wife Lily), Anna Clair Coley, Bo Coley, Decker Coley (wife Anna), Coley Collett Hull (husband Teddy), Addy Collett Hakim (husband Nick), Mary Coley McMillan, Luci McMillan Parker (husband Matthew), and Tommy McMillan.

Bill graduated from Newton Conover High School and then attended North Carolina State University and graduated with a degree in Architecture. During his time at N.C. State, he also played on the university's basketball team and was a member of Kappa Alpha fraternity. Beyond his professional achievements, Bill found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He was an avid duck and goose hunter on Maryland's Eastern Shore and enjoyed offshore fishing in North Carolina and Panama with his sons and grandsons. His love for the outdoors extended to teaching his family to water ski on Lake Hickory, always accompanied by his loyal Labrador. He could be found in his workshop in the evenings working on projects and creating new furniture designs.

Bill was a man of few words and when he spoke you should pay attention for his insight and wisdom. Bill's unique "Breakfast of Champions" consisted of two Oreos and a cup of coffee with whole milk, a testament to his straightforward and practical approach to life. His presence was a source of strength and guidance for his family, and his legacy is one of love, resilience, and dedication.

A drop-in celebration of life will be held on Sunday, December 15th between 2:00pm-4:00pm at Lee Industries, 210 4th Street SW, Conover, NC 28613. The entrance and parking will be located in the back of the building. Come as you are.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to The Norman B. Coley Foundation, 210 4th Street SW, Conover, NC 28613, in honor of Bill's enduring commitment to his family and community. His life was a testament to the values he held dear, and his memory will continue to inspire all who knew him.