The Waverley Web sends its sincere condolences to Jack Lee’s family, friends, colleagues and the people of Milford and Witley. We will miss this bright smiling avuncular character.
The sudden death was announced today that Jack Lee, who until earlier this week, due to the resignation of Elizabeth Townsend, was the only Independent Councillor at Waverley Borough Council.
Jack was the lead Armed forces champion for Waverley, a good and active councillor for residents of Milford and will, undoubtedly be a great loss to the new coalition group of which he was an important part.
Jack and his family have lived in Milford and Witley for over thirty years.
Jack was educated at Queen Victoria School, Dunblane and Edinburgh University. Following a successful career in international scientific and medical publishing, and Internet project management he retired and concentrated on his work in Milford & Witley.
Having served as a Parish Councillor representing Milford for over seven years, Jack had a good understanding of how local government works and how to make things happen. And he was doing just that right up until his death.
He was Vice-Chairman of Witley Parish Council and Vice-Chairman of the Planning and Finance Committees.
This made him well acquainted with the issues facing Milford and Waverley residents.
His wife Stella was an infant teacher in Surrey. Their two grown-up daughters attended Rodborough School, now have university degrees and are doing well in their professional careers.
John Ward, Leader of Waverley Borough Council, said: “Councillor Lee was elected as an Independent councillor for Milford in May this year and has played an incredibly active part in the work of the council since then.
“He was on a number of committees, including the Central Planning Committee, Licensing and Regulatory Committee, two Licensing Sub-Committees and the Housing Overview and Scrutiny Committee. As Waverley’s Armed Forces Champion, he played a leading role in raising awareness of the dedication and sacrifices made by current and ex-armed service personnel in the borough. He was also very passionate, committed and active in finding new ways for the council and wider community to support servicemen, women and veterans.
“Councillor Lee was a very hard-working member and was committed to making both the village of Milford and the entire borough, a great place to live. He was a well-respected, kind and good-humoured gentleman who will be missed by all who knew him.
“Our deep condolences go out to his family and friends.”
As a mark of respect, the flag at The Burys will be flying at half-mast on Thursday.
This is very sad news, I stood for Milford at the same time as Jack and he had my 2nd vote. He was an excellent Councillor and will be missed.
Sad loss, I met Jack six months ago on our first day as a Councillors at Waverley and we immediately made friends. Such a laid back and friendly character. I served with Jack on the Licencing and Regulatory Committee and he always had perceptive and useful contributions to make. A great loss to Waverley. Best wishes to his family.
We wholeheartedly agree with your sentiments, and your confidence in him was shared by many others.
Thank your for this heartfelt tribute to a very lovely man Peter.