Richard Lee

Richard Lee

Murrieta - Richard Lee passed away December 12, 2020 in his home in Murrieta, CA at the age of 88. He was the first child of Vincent Lee, Sr. and Mary Lee. Brother to Vincent Lee, Jr. He grew up in Norwood, Massachusetts where he excelled in academics and athletics, including football, basketball, and track. After high school, he served as a Sergeant in the United States Marine Corps. He received the Naval Occupational Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, United Nations Service Medal, Korean War Service Medal, and an Honorable Discharge.

After serving his country, he attended San Diego State College, earned a degree in Social Science, his teaching credential and graduated with high honors. He was a high school teacher, who taught U.S. History, World History, Civics, Psychology, and English. While teaching, he earned his Law Degree from the University of San Diego School of Law. He was a member of The International Legal Fraternity of Phi Delta Phi. He passed the California Bar Exam and began to practice Law. He was employed as an attorney at several Law Firms which included partnerships of: The Law Firm of Marlin & Lee; Windham & Lee, Attorneys at Law; and Shuford & Lee, Attorneys at Law, among others.

He had a long and distinguished career as a member of the judicial bench of Riverside County within the Coordinated Superior/Municipal Courts. He served as a Juvenile Court Referee and as a Court Commissioner. The Honorable Richard Lee handled a wide variety of responsibilities and cases, including Civil Law, Motion Calendars, Family Law, Probate Calendars, Mandatory Settlement Calendars, and in 1995 alone, handled 19 criminal jury trials.

Commissioner Richard Lee was known for his professional expertise and his personal contributions to the legal community. He served as the President of the Board of Directors for the Boys Club of Coachella Valley. He was presented with the Key to the City of Indio for his service as the Planning Commissioner.

He was a devoted husband to Barbara Lee. They shared a love for traveling and the arts. They created wonderful memories in their many years together. After Barbara's passing, there was not a day that went by where he did not miss her.

Richard devoted his time and efforts to his dear wife, family, friends, and his community. As an avid fisherman, he felt great happiness on the water. We will remember him as a patriot who was highly intelligent, tough, generous and kind. He was a mentor to his (step) grandson and doted on his (step) great grandchildren at every opportunity. He is greatly missed.