Washington T Lee

Washington Tom Hing Lee was born in New York City to Hong and Kim Lee on February 22, 1945. And since that day is the birthday of our first American President, George Washington, it was only fitting that he would become his namesake. Thus, what followed was the creation of the annual double Washington birthday/holiday celebration in the Lee family.

At the age of 3 years old in 1948, his parents moved their family to San Antonio, Texas. Settling into his new neighborhood, he soon attended Thomas Jefferson High School where he was a stellar student and ROTC cadet before graduating in 1962. He went on to college at Southern Methodist University in Dallas, graduating in 1966 with a degree in Electrical Engineering.

Soon after receiving his Draft Notice, Washington joined the United States Navy. After graduating from OCS, he was first commissioned an Ensign and soon later promoted to Lt. Washington Lee, j.g. Flight school followed and then his service as a Reconnaissance Pilot in Vietnam, where he served his country proudly and bravely.

After his discharge, Washington realized his true calling. He completed pre-med courses and was soon accepted at Texas Tech Health Services Center School of Medicine in Lubbock in 1973. His internship followed at Baylor College of Medicine at Ben Taub Hospital in Houston. He then served from 1979-1983, in the Commissioned Corp of the U.S. Public Health Services, as a doctor, at a Choctaw Indian Reservation hospital near Meridian, Mississippi for 2 years That was followed by 2 more years as a doctor in a Migrant Farm Workers Clinic in Pleasanton, Texas. His medical training was completed when he served his residency at Scott & White Hospital in Temple. Back in San Antonio, he opened up his Ophthalmology practice in the southwest side of the city in 1985. He settled in and became regarded as a dedicated and respected Ophthalmologist and eye surgeon until his retirement in 2020.

Washington spent his final years and retirement in his family home in San Antonio.

On the morning of July 26, he passed away peacefully. But he was not alone in his last days. Many family members and close friends--all of whom loved him--visited with him, reminisced with him, and just kept company by his side in the days preceding his death.

Washington was predeceased by his parents, his eldest sister, Mee Yee Lee, his nephew, David Chin, and his grandnephew, Judah Chin. He is survived by his brother, Tom, and his sisters: Bet, Wan Gee, Shirley, Kim, Sue, and Vicky. He is also survived by 13 nieces and nephews, 18 grandnieces and grandnephews, 1 great grandnephew, and many cherished cousins.

Pallbearers at the funeral are:Jimmy LeeGerard RendonJonathan RiceSarah SittonGreg TillmonStephen Tyring

A luncheon honoring Washington will follow the ceremony at:China Inn2241 NW Military HwySan Antonio, TX 78213(210) 308-827711:30 AM-2 PM

For all those planning to attend the Military Honors Service, please arrive to Ft. Sam Houston National Cemetery no later than 10am on Friday August 28, 2026.

To Washington, our Brother, Uncle, Cousin, and Friend:May your final journey be a peaceful one.