Lee Announces Candidacy

by Dwight Turner

R.E. "Bobby" Lee Jr. has announced his candidacy for Giles County General Sessions/Juvenile Judge.

Lee has been elected as General Sessions judge twice before, most recently serving from 1990-98. Prior to his second term, Lee was appointed by the governor of Tennessee to serve out the remainder of the late Judge Thomas' term and was later elected and served from 1974-82.

"Throughout my life, my genuine interest has long been the youth of this county, and that is where I intend to focus much of my energy," Lee said. "My experiences as a parent, as judge for 16 years, as a lifelong Giles Countian and my longstanding concern for our children have compelled me to run in this election."

Lee is a Pulaski native and graduated from Giles County High School in 1940.


R.E. "Bobby" Lee

A World War II veteran, Lee transferred from the U.S. Army Field Artillery into the U.S. Army Air Corp in September 1942, seeing active duty in the European Theatre.

Lee took part in the D-Day invasion force, flying in combat over Omaha Beach. While flying a mission 16 days after D-Day, the left engine of his bomber was shot out, forcing a crash landing. In spite of this setback, he was still able to complete his required duty of flying 65 combat missions.

In July 1943 Lee married Ruth Winstead. More than 60 years later, Lee and his wife are the parents of three, and the grandparents of four. After starting his family and being honorably discharged from the service, Lee went to Law School at Knoxville, graduating with his LLB in 1949 and went on to practice law in Pulaski with his brother Clayton until 1953. In addition to his law practice, Lee farmed as well.

In 1953 Lee got into the earth-moving and steel construction business, which he did for 20 years. In 1969, he became Giles County's first elected Highway Superintendent. From 1972-74 he established L&H Paving and Richland Steel.

Lee is a member of First United Methodist Church, a 60-year member of the American Legion and a Life Member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

Lee retired in 1998, choosing to spend more time with his family. He has traveled across the country on his motorcycle, and remains an avid rider.

"Weather permitting, I'm typically out riding my motorcycle somewhere in the county," Lee said. "The `Ol' Judge' is still giving birthday rides to anybody who wants them." 

Lee welcomes calls from the public at 931-363-4601. Lee's campaign treasurer, Hershell Koger, can be contacted at his office at 109 South First Street or by calling 931- 424-0882.

"I'm not one to sit idly by, and I am concerned about the future of Giles County and its citizens," Lee said. "I want to help Giles County realize its potential. Look to the future. Look to change. Look to Bobby Lee as Judge."