Walter Lee Bounds, 58, of Bartlett, Tennessee, passed from this earth on January 15. Lee was born on September 7, 1966, to Walter Theodore "Ted" Bounds and Anita Marie (Agee) Bounds, both of Memphis.

Preceded in death by his parents, Lee leaves his loving sister, Tina Renee Bounds, and his beloved dog, Bentley.

He will be missed by a large chosen "framily" of dear friends and their children to whom Lee was known as "Uncle Lee" or "Uncle Wally." He always had a toy, craft project or surprise to make any gathering hilarious. Kids and adults alike took joy in the playful plastic microphones, wigs or games he would bring to make their "framily" get-togethers come alive.

A graduate of Harding Academy High School and Harding University, Lee was a dedicated University of Memphis basketball fan – a love he shared with his mother, father and sister. His father also instilled in Lee an eager and easy ability to talk to anyone, always leaving them smiling. From his mother, he inherited his love of travel, music and singing.

As faithful Christians, Lee's parents also taught him the joy of serving others. Lee was always helping people who needed home improvements and was an expert in building decks or ramps to help his friends, the elderly or infirmed.

Lee's career was in banking, but he was a creative and artistic soul at heart. He loved building furniture, making home improvements, decorating, fixing anything, and creating whatever inspired him.

There will be a memorial service Monday, January 20, at Sycamore View Church of Christ (1910 Sycamore View Rd., Memphis, TN 38134) at 6:30 p.m. with visitation beginning at 5:00 p.m. Forest Hill Funeral Home has charge of the events.

In lieu of flowers, Tina has requested any memorials be directed to Hope Works, 3337 Summer Avenue, Memphis, TN 38134, www.whyhopeworks.org, or to any animal rescue group or non-profit organization dedicated to the care and concern of people and animals.