It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of our beloved father, Lee R. Sailers, who departed from this world at age 83 on October 22, 2024 in Clearwater, Florida. Surrounded by his loving family in his final moments, he was a man of humor and wisdom, cherishing every moment spent with his loved ones. His passion for storytelling, his booming laugh and his unwavering spirit will forever be remembered.
He was the son of Anna Mae Sailers and Roy Lee Sailers. Lee was born on August 10, 1941 in Cincinnati, Ohio. He is proceeded in death by his brother, Hubert Sailers and his sister, Barbara Jones. He is survived by his daughter, Sheila Sailers Haas, his son, Bruce Lee Sailers (Cristin Leigh Sailers) and his grandchildren Chelsea Madalyn Haas, Ashley Haas Westerheide (Dan Westerheide), Carson Frederick Haas, Caileigh Bryn Sailers and Nicholas Clark Sailers.
Lee proudly served in the United States Marines, volunteering for two tours in Vietnam and serving until he was honorably discharged. During his time in active duty, he received multiple awards for his service, including the Navy Achievement Medal (with Combat “V”):
“Citation:
‘While serving with Truck Company, Headquarters and Service Battalion, First Force Service Regiment/Force Logistic Command in connection with combat operations … , Staff Sergeant Sailers performed his duties in an exemplary manner. Initially assigned as a Platoon Sergeant, he displayed outstanding professionalism and initiative despite extremely adverse conditions and the difficulties of a combat environment. Distinguishing himself by his consistently high level of efficiency, he materially enhanced the operational effectiveness of his unit. Reassigned as the Operations Chief, he skillfully supervised his personnel in the expeditious accomplishment of all assigned tasks, thereby providing outstanding support for his command. Subsequently reassigned as the Company Embarkation Staff Noncommissioned Officer, he continued to distinguish himself in the performance of his duties. As a result of his diligence and seemingly unlimited resourcefulness, he gained the respect and admiration of all who observed him and contributed significantly to the accomplishment of his unit’s mission. Staff Sergeant Sailers’ outstanding professional ability, untiring determination and steadfast devotion to duty reflect great credit upon himself, the Marine Corps and the Naval Service.’
The Combat Distinguishing Device is authorized.”
Thank you for your service and dedication to our country, Lee (Dad, Poppy).
A military burial service for Staff Sergeant Lee R. Sailers, United States Marine Corps will be honorably performed at the Florida National Cemetery, November 7, 2024 at 1:30p.m. Services will be arranged by Abbey Affordable Funeral Services and the U.S. Veterans Administration.
A celebration of life in Cincinnati, Ohio will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please donate to a charity of your choice in Lee’s name.
Our family thanks you for your thoughts and prayers.
