Bishop Willie Lee

Pentecostal Assemblies of the World

1901 ~ 1969

Bishop Willie Lee was born February 16, 1901, in Starksville, Mississippi. He was the son of Mr. Charlie and Mrs. Hester Lee. He attended public school in Starksville. He was united in marriage to Miss Maggie Taylor, September 22, 1918, in Parkin, Mississippi. To this union, one son was born who preceeded him in death July 13, 1968.

Willie was baptized in Jesus' Name and received the gift of the Holy Ghost in February, 1925, under the ministry of the late Bishop G.T. Haywood. Later, moving to Detroit, Michigan he was selected the assistant pastor of Greater Bethlehem Temple under the leadership of the late Bishop Samuel N. Hancock. Promoted by God to higher heights he became pastor of Christ Temple Church in Musekegon Heights, Michigan for a number of years and erected a church edifice.  

Bishop Lee returned to Indianapolis by request of the official board and accepted the pastorate of Christ Temple and for 15 years he served faithfully. With many accomplishments, provinf God's favor with him in the addition and erection of a saints home and annex. Also the purchase of a new parking lot across the street from the church. October, 1957, Bishop Lee ws elected the Assistant Presiding Bishop of the Pentecostal churches of the Apostolic Faith, Inc. Later, succeeding to the Senior Bishopric after the death of Bishop S.N. Hancock.

Field trips, conferences and general pastoral duties became the way of life for him until Sunday, June 15, Bishop Lee expressed himself to his assistant pastor, District Elder Nathaniel Madden, "I am tired, I am going to rest." The sweet rest in the Lord came on June 19, 1969 at the age of 68 years and 4 months and 3 days. Although another great warrior and champion of the faith fell in battle, Bishop Willie Lee will forever be remembered for his love of Apostolic truth.