William (Bill) M. Lea
It is with heavy hearts and profound respect that we announce the passing of William (Bill) M. Lea, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, dedicated public servant, and a cherished friend to many. Bill left this world peacefully on February 28, 2026, in Naples, FL, at the age of 77, surrounded by love. Memorial Services will be held on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at 11:30 AM, at the Brownsville Funeral Home Chapel with Father Patrick Friend officiating. Inurnment will follow at the Brownsville Memorial Gardens. There will be a visitation held at the Brownsville Funeral Home from 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM prior to the memorial service.
Bill was born on May 29, 1948, in the close-knit community of Brownsville, TN, to Joe Wilson and Cherry Miller Lea. From a young age, Bill exhibited a natural aptitude for numbers and a remarkable attention to detail, traits that would later define his successful career and his approach to life.
Bill graduated from Haywood High School as President of his senior class, captain of the football team and Mr. Haywood High. He also graduated from the University of Tennessee at Martin with an accounting degree.
Bill answered the call of duty and served his country with honor as a member of the United States Marine Corps. During the Vietnam War, he served with courage and commitment, embodying the values of bravery and perseverance that would guide him throughout his life. His service was a testament to his unwavering dedication to his country and his fellow citizens, a legacy that will never be forgotten.
Following his military service, Bill returned to Tennessee, where he embarked on a fulfilling career as an accountant for over 50 years. His meticulous nature and integrity earned him respect and admiration from colleagues and clients alike. Over the years, Bill’s expertise and professionalism helped many individuals and businesses find their financial footing, and he took great pride in the trust and confidence placed in him. Bill also served on the Board of Directors for Brownsville Energy Authority for many years. The family would like to thank his many clients who were faithful to him throughout the years.
Bill’s life was marked by the love and companionship he shared with his wife, children and grandchildren. His family was a testament to enduring love and mutual respect, a life that weathered many challenges and celebrated its countless joys. Together, they cultivated a home filled with warmth, laughter, and love—a safe haven for family and friends alike.
Bill was predeceased by his parents, Joe Wilson and Cherry Miller Lea, his brothers, Joe W. Lea, Jr., and Tom Lea., father-in-law and mother-in-law Billy and Barbara Stafford and sister-in-law Betty Stafford Friend. Though their loss was deeply felt, Bill cherished the memories and values they instilled in him, carrying them forward in every aspect of his life.
Bill leaves behind his wife, Brenda Stafford Lea, his children: Selle Shanks (Tim), William Lea (Terri), Anne Workman (Rusty), Abby Delashmit (Cory), and Emily Lober (Don), his grandchildren: Joseph Shanks, Elizabeth Nash (Stephen), Conlee Batten (Zach), MarySelle Lea, John Workman, Mae Workman (Morgan), Will Workman, Drake Hooper (Grace), Stafford Hooper (Alana), Mary-Elizabeth Hooper, Wyatt Delashmit, Miller Chantharasy, Jude Chantharasy, Henry Lober, Audrey Lober, and Charlotte Batten, brother-in-law Jerry Friend, sisters-in-law Judy Lea and Peggy Lea, nephews Chris Lea, Jody Lea (Jeanna), Patrick Friend, Joe Friend, and niece Katherine Hoffman (James).
Bill also leaves behind his coworkers: Lisa Arnold, Kim Faulkner, Holly Austin, and Richard Brown and special friends Janice Mann, William Brummett, and Steve King who he cherished as family. He had an unwavering commitment to those he held dear.
Bill leaves behind a legacy of kindness, integrity, and service that will continue to inspire all who knew him. His life was a testament to the power of compassion and the importance of living with purpose.
The family kindly requests that donations be made in Bill’s memory to a charity of choice, continuing his lifelong mission of support and service.
Pallbearers for the service are Joseph Shanks, Drake Hooper, Stafford Hooper, John Workman, Will Workman, Miller Chantharasy, Jude Chantharasy, Zach Batten and Stephen Nash.
Honorary Pallbearers are George Chapman, Donnie Hatcher, Matthew Simmons, Mike Gay, George Floyd, Tony Hooper and Pat Banks.
May we all strive to live as Bill did—with a generous heart, a steadfast spirit, and an unwavering dedication to the things that truly matter. He will be dearly missed and forever remembered. All arrangements and services are under the direction of the Lea & Simmons Funeral Home.
