In Memoriam: Robert W. Lee, Co-Author for Alabama Workers’ Compensation Law and Handbook (LexisNexis)
Robert W. Lee, age 55, passed away on August 16, 2009. The legal world lost a vital, talented member of its bar at too early of an age. Those of us fortunate to have had Bob in our legal lives will miss him for several reasons. He had the uncharacteristic ability to make every lawyer, young or old, feel important and worthy of the practice of law. This is a rare talent that speaks volumes about his character. But mostly, he made the practice of law fun. Not many can carry this badge of honor.
His depth of knowledge of any topic from law to medicine to Auburn football, his uncanny ability to narrow the issues down in a case, his unique ability to find good in every person and situation, his open personality that made lawyers relish having a case with him, and his natural presence in front of a jury or judge encompass the perfect lawyer that Bob Lee was. Judges respected him, opposing counsel appreciated his candor, and the plaintiff’s bar honored him and all deservedly so. While there were accolades, publications, authorships, and honors, Bob’s legal presence was more of an intangible greatness.
While law was important to Bob, his greatest passion was for his family. If he were here today for me to ask him what his greatest accomplishment in life was, I know he would answer his two sons, Harrison and Draper. My days of practice with Bob were always filled with stories of carpool adventures, Auburn football games, and going to the lake house, and all included his boys. Then after my girls were born, Bob became not only my legal mentor but also my parenting mentor – a role I think he preferred! I hope that I can live up to his hopes for me as a lawyer and a mother. I will miss my law partner, my mentor, and my friend. I know I am not alone in missing him.
– Wendy N. Thornton, Esq.