Dr. Bill Lee, owner of Vision Veterinary Imaging, the sole veterinary teleradiology and mobile ultrasound service of the greater Nashville, Tennessee, area—passed away unexpectedly yet peacefully in his sleep on November 3, 2016.
Bill was born and raised in Memphis, Tennessee. He graduated with honors from the University of Tennessee in Knoxville with a bachelor’s degree in agriculture (animal science) in 2000 and likewise obtained his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree with honors from the University of Tennessee in Knoxville in 2004. At graduation from veterinary school, he also received the American College of Veterinary Radiology Senior Student Award (2004).
Bill completed an internship in small animal medicine and surgery followed by a specialty internship in diagnostic imaging at Mississippi State University (2004–2006). He then undertook a radiology residency at North Carolina State University, obtaining full board certification with the American College of Veterinary Radiology in 2009. While in his residency, Bill received the American College of Veterinary Radiology Resident Research Award (2008) and ultimately published his work in Veterinary Radiology & Ultrasound (2010): “The Effects of Iohexol Administration on 99mTcO4 Thyroid Scintigraphy in Normal Cats.” He worked an additional year at North Carolina State University as a clinical instructor before moving to Nashville, Tennessee, in the summer of 2010 to pursue his dream of being a radiology practice owner.
Possessing exceptional intelligence, courage, and ability, mediocrity was not in Bill’s DNA. He often stated that he only needed a forum and a plan; through hard work, he would make the rest happen. Bill was vibrant and enthusiastic, fun‐loving, and adventurous. He inspired others to dream hard, work hard, and play hard.
He thrived most whenever he was outdoors, especially while mountain biking, wakeboarding, snowboarding, or working hard at the family farms. Bill was well traveled, taking numerous vacations and weekend getaways to expose his kids to the wonders of the world. He loved street tacos, good music, and veterinary radiology. He was witty with a contagious smile and a great sense of humor, frequently mixing those with a spark of spontaneous mischief. Nonetheless, he was kind to a fault and cared genuinely for others. He made every effort to right any wrongdoing and firmly believed in second chances. Bill was down‐to‐earth, honest, and straightforward; he kept his word. He showed kindness to strangers—frequently storing extra goodies, cash, and hand warmers in his vehicle to distribute to the homeless on the Nashville street corners as he made his mobile work rounds.
Among former students and clinicians, he is best remembered for his brilliant mind, patience, and charm. All enjoyed Bill’s ability to relate to them and teach them, regardless of the complexity of the topic. Remarkably, Bill almost always had the answer to any imaging question—right off the top of his head—confidently yet without arrogance. He was among the most trustworthy of colleagues.
Above all, Bill was a family man and a true friend. He cherished his children and his wife; he loved his extended family. His primary missions in life were to be a good provider, a loving husband and an “awesome dad” to his two sons. He was an amazing dad.
In the words of the Memoriam written for, Dr. Dan Cantwell, one of Bill’s earlier mentors who also passed away in 2016: Godspeed, Bill. May all your images also be free of artifacts.
You are very dearly missed, Friend.