Tributes

J. Lee Vause, Sr., a long-time community leader and beloved father and grandfather, passed away peacefully on May 12, 2025 at the age of 87 at Big Bend Hospice Compassionate Care at TMH following complications from dementia. Born on April 2, 1938, in Crawfordville, Florida, Lee was a proud native Floridian who dedicated his life to serving his community, building lasting relationships, and enjoying the beauty of the Florida outdoors. Following his graduation from Leon High School he attended Florida State University and then went on to become a successful entrepreneur and respected public servant. He was a founding partner of Butler-Vause Insurance and Real Estate Brokerage, served with distinction as a Leon County Commissioner from 1972 to 1992; as Chairman six times , and later founded the First Bank of Tallahassee. Along the way he served as Chairman and Director of countless state and local boards, including Governor appointed positions on both the Transportation and Medical Boards. After a lifetime of dedication to business and public service, Lee continued to lend his expertise through private consulting work until his retirement. Once retired, one of his proudest accomplishments was obtaining his Ship Captain’s license and completing The Great Loop, a journey that took him from his home in Spring Creek, up the East Coast and then through the heartland of America by way of the Mississippi River, where he made countless friends along the way. Lee’s greatest joys in life came from fishing, boating, golfing, and traveling—but above all, he cherished time spent with his family and friends. He was a man of integrity, known for his sharp wit, generous spirit, and unwavering love for his community and country. Proceeded in death by his beloved wife Sharon LaHayne Vause and son William Todd Vause, he is survived by his sister Annette Carpenter (Chris); brother Richard LaHayne (Kathy), son; J. Lee Vause, Jr., (Chris); daughter Christina Roberto (Jose); grandchildren Thomas Vause, Tylor Vause, Dylan Vause, Jason Roberto, Brandon Roberto, Charlotte Roberto, Joshua Vause, Justin Vause, and Maegan Voisinet; and five great-grandchildren, all of whom brought him endless pride and joy. The family will receive friends, Friday, May 16, 2025 from 6:00- 8:00 PM at Bevis Funeral Home, 200 John Knox Rd. Tallahassee, FL. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, May 17, 2025, 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm. A Bar-B-Q lunch will be served at 12:30, at J. Lee Vause Park, 6024 Old Bainbridge Rd, Tallahassee, FL 32303—a fitting tribute at a place that bears his name and reflects his legacy, all are welcome. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Big Bend Hospice and/or the Alzheimer’s Association, organizations close to their hearts. Lee’s life was a testament to the power of service, love, and community—and his legacy will live on in the many lives he touched. Todd Wahlquist and Dayne Parker of Bevis Funeral Home (850-385-2193 or www.bevisfh.com) are assisting the family with their arrangements.

Tributes

J. Lee Vause

April 2, 1938 - May 12, 2025