William "Lee" Crosby, Jr.

William "Lee" Crosby Obituary

Beloved Husband, Father, and Grandfather

William “Lee” Dudley Crosby, Jr., 74, passed away peacefully on July 24, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia, surrounded by his loved ones.

Born on January 1, 1951 in Atlanta, Georgia to William Dudley Sr. and Frances Bessette Crosby, Lee’s life was defined by deep friendships, a devoted family, and tireless service to others. 

Lee was raised in Louisville, Kentucky, where he formed a lasting friendship with Harry Davies—a friendship that grew alongside the enduring connection between the Davies and Crosby families. He attended Trinity High School, where he was deeply influenced by Father Dave Zettle, a beloved faculty member who became a mentor and friend. In the fall of 1969, he enrolled at Oxford College. It was there where he quickly formed lifelong bonds, including with his “Roomie,” Henry Anthony and future employer, Dutton Miller. Lee played intramural sports, served on the Honor Council, and went on to graduate from Emory University with a Bachelor of Science in Business. At Emory, he was a proud member of Kappa Alpha Order and served as a dorm advisor.

After college, Lee launched his career with General Electric, working first in “LA”—Lower Alabama—before relocating to Atlanta, where he met the love of his life, Becky Fleming. Lee and Becky married and soon moved to Louisville, Kentucky, where their first son, Billy, was born. A gifted salesman, Lee later accepted a position as Sales Manager with Miller/Whitehead Hardware in Valdosta, Georgia. Wanting to put down roots for his growing family, Lee remained with Miller/Whitehead for over 39 years, becoming a trusted and respected figure in the industry.

Their second son, Bond Carter, was born shortly after the move to Valdosta, where Lee threw himself into faith, family, and community. A devoted member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Lee served in many leadership roles, including Parish Council President, Stewardship Chairman, Finance Chairman, Lector, and CCD teacher.

Lee’s impact extended far beyond the church walls. He coached teams at the YMCA and the Boys and Girls Club, where he also served as board president and spearheaded numerous fundraisers and building projects. A lifelong sports enthusiast, Lee especially loved tennis and built lasting friendships with his Monday night dinner crew: Billy Kirkpatrick, Anthony Cangelosi, and Mike Murphy. He also passionately supported the Valdosta Wildcats, serving on the football board and as president of both the baseball Dugout Club and Basketball Boosters.

Lee and Becky treasured their time in Valdosta, enjoying bridge nights, supper clubs, adventures with their travel group, and evenings at the Arts Center with dear friends. 

In the fall of 2023, Lee joined a renal cancer clinical trial at Emory Winship Cancer Institute, knowing it might not help him but hoping it would help others. His final act of generosity was supported by an incredible care team, including his devoted clinical research nurse, Jodi Ewing. When his health required him to step away from work in July 2024, Lee and Becky moved to Atlanta to be closer to family.

Lee was preceded in death by his parents as well as his beloved son, Bond Carter Crosby. He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Becky Fleming Crosby; son, Billy Crosby (Kym); sister, Carole Scofield (Dave); and his adored grandchildren: Neal Carter, Fletcher Bond, and June Comstock Crosby. He is also lovingly remembered by his in-laws—Dell Palazzolo, Jane and Tom Keene, John and Lisa Fleming—and a host of loving nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Lee Crosby lived a full and generous life, grounded in faith, family, and friendship. His legacy will live on in the many lives he touched. A celebration of life will be held at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church on August 9, 2025 at 11:00 am. Visitation with the family will be at Carson McLane Funeral Home in Valdosta on August 8, 5:00-7:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Boys and Girls Club of Valdosta (PO Box 682, Valdosta, GA 31603 ) or to St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church (800 Gornto Rd, Valdosta, GA, 31602 ).