William "Bill" Lee

William Earl Lee • 1943–2026

William “Bill” Earl Lee is survived by his devoted wife, Eloise Paul; his daughters Stacia Lee and Kristen Smith (Andrew Smith); his son Scott Lee (Kelley); and his granddaughters Amelia Smith, Alyxandra Lee, and Addison Lee. He is also survived by his mother in law Dorit Paul; in laws Alison Paul and Marc Gold; many beloved nieces and nephews; and the caregivers who became family through their kindness and care.

Bill was born in Indianapolis to Joseph and Virginia Lee. After college, he proudly served in the military before building a successful interior contracting business. That work eventually led him to meet the love of his life, Eloise. Together they spent more than twenty extraordinary years traveling the world, savoring good food, good friends, and the kind of adventures that become family legends. They brought out the best in each other—and often in everyone around them.

Bill loved tennis and was an enthusiastic outdoorsman, happiest when water skiing, fishing, or simply soaking in the sunshine. He devoured biographies, loved music, and never turned down an opportunity to dance. He also had an exceptionally soft heart for animals, especially rescue bunnies. Many a rabbit lived a life of luxury thanks to Bill, and he delighted in introducing Eloise to the joy and occasional chaos of bunny companionship.

He passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by loved ones, after a lengthy and valiant fight against multiple health challenges. Through it all, Bill showed us how to greet each day with gratitude, humor, and grit. He made the most of every moment and maintained more positivity in the face of adversity than anyone could have imagined.

Bill leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, generosity, and a life lived fully—right up to the last chapter.

Services will be on Thursday, 3/12, at 11 am at Indianapolis Hebrew Congregation, 6501 North Meridian Street. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Indianapolis Hebrew Congregation, the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, or Dance Kaleidoscope.

Aaron-Ruben-Nelson Funeral Home is handling arrangements.