Dr. Lee Gatliff Durham Jr.

Dr. Lee Gatliff Durham, Jr, 73, of Williamsburg, departed this life on Thursday, September 27, 2018 at Central Baptist in Lexington, surrounded by his family.

Dr. Durham was born on October 4, 1944 in Williamsburg, and was the youngest child of Lee G. Durham and Dixie Holt Durham. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Grace Faulkner.

Lee attended Cumberland College, graduated in 1965, and University of Louisville Medical School, graduating in 1969.
After Dr. Durham graduated from medical school, he started a solo practice in Jellico, TN and was instrumental in opening the Jellico Hospital.

His professional career included emergency room care, private practice, and nursing home medical care, all in the Williamsburg/Corbin area. He was a partner in the Beechtree Manor Nursing Home in Jellico. He retired from medical practice to pursue his dream of full time ranching.

Dr. Durham’s achievements during his lifetime were extensive and varied, including, Major in the 5010th US Army Reserve, Kentucky Colonel, Vice Chairman of the Whitley County Health Department, Fraternal Order of Police, Whitley County Deputized Physician, and University of Louisville School of Medicine Outstanding Intern 1969-70.

He was most proud of his other affiliations and hobbies including Member of the Wofford Baptist Church, Breeder of Top Ten World Champion Cutting Horse “Millenium One”, Whitley County Airport Committee (Founding), and American Quarter Horse Association 30 Year Breeders Award.

He is survived by his loving wife, Janis and his four children, Lee G. Durham III (wife Brandi), Lara Lee Harris (husband John), Jason William Durham, and Tacy Jane Boles (husband Mark); seven grandchildren, Katie Grace, Mallory Elizabeth, Samuel Jonathan, Jackson Holt, James (Luke), Levi Graydon, and Sophia Ruth; special son, Mark Sizemore (wife Vanessa); and a host of other family and friends to mourn his passing.

The funeral service was held Monday, October 1, at the Croley Funeral Home Chapel with Dr. Mark Patton, Elsie Crawford, and Rev. Doyle Lester officiating.

A private family graveside and interment was held. American Legion Post 88 conducted the Military Honors.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations may be made to the Lee G. Durham, Jr. MD “Man in the Arena” scholarship fund to be given to a local high school student in his name, in line with his legacy of generosity.

Condolences may be made to the family at www.croleyfuneralhome.com.

Croley Funeral Home of Williamsburg was in charge of the arrangements.