Naugatuck Father Dies Unexpectedly, Community Rallies To Support Family

NAUGATUCK, CT — A fundraiser has been launched to support the family of a beloved corrections officer from Naugatuck after his unexpected death over the weekend.

According to his obituary posted by Prospect Memorial Funeral & Cremation Services, William "Billy" Lee, 41, of Naugatuck, died Saturday at Waterbury Hospital.

Born in Derby, Lee worked as a respected corrections officer at the Cheshire Correctional Institution and was a member of the Union Local 387. He leaves behind a fiancée and three children, as well as many other family members and friends.

"His life was too short, but he leaves a treasure trove of love and memories with his family and friends," the obituary reads.

A GoFundMe fundraiser has been launched to help cover funeral expenses for Lee and support his daughter, Ava, "during this heartbreaking time," according to the GoFundMe's description.

"Every donation, no matter the amount, will help lift the financial burden as we try to honor his memory and navigate life without him," the description reads.

As of Wednesday afternoon, the GoFundMe campaign has raised nearly $21,000 toward a $24,000 goal after receiving over 250 donations. Those who wish to donate can do so here.

On Monday, AFSCME Council 4, which "represents 30,000 hard-working public service employees from more than 500 local unions" across Connecticut, posted a tribute to Lee that noted its union "is committed to standing by William Lee's family as they grapple with this tragic and devastating loss."

The tribute noted all of AFSCME, as well as Lee's other union siblings, mourn his passing.

"We ask all of our AFSCME members and friends, if you have the means, to please consider making a financial contribution to William Lee's family, to support them in this trying time," the tribute reads.

A visitation for Lee is scheduled to take place Wednesday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Prospect Memorial Funeral Home, located at 122 Waterbury Road in Prospect. A time of remembrance and honor will be held from 7 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Lee will be laid to rest Thursday at 10 a.m. at Saint James Cemetery in Naugatuck. Friends and family may gather at the funeral home at 9 a.m., and a procession will depart at 9:30 a.m., according to the obituary.