James Thomas Lee

January 21, 1948, to November 29, 2020, James Thomas Lee was born in Philadelphia to Doris and Thomas Lee. He died in West Hollywood at his home from heart disease. Jim is survived by his husband Uriel Elon, the love of his life. Jim often spoke of his love of Uri and was in awe of Uri's unconditional love and support. They were one.

Jim had five siblings and is survived by one brother, and many nieces and nephews, including his best friend and loving niece, Judy. Jim was the guy who stayed in touch with you, and he had a slew of friends whom he never let go of. He treasured these people and loved them deeply. They know who they are.

Dr. Jim Lee attended grade school and high school in the suburbs of Philadelphia, enjoying the care and love of his parents Doris and Tom, who gave all to him and his siblings. Dr. Lee had chosen his career at the age of eleven and was determined to reach his goals, He did.

He completed his BS at the University of Maryland followed by his D.O. at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. He later became certified with the American Academy of HIV Medicine. He specialized in Addiction Medicine for fifteen years, a field he loved, later focusing exclusively on HIV medicine from 1982 onward. He was a pioneer in providing care for HIV patients and loved what he did during a very difficult time in the epidemic. He actually continued to have patients for thirty-five plus years at the time of his death. He was well-loved and selfless in his care of his patients.

Jim Lee loved life. His emails ended with "Life is Wonderful", and a link to the Aretha Franklin song Jimmylee. And he enjoyed every day no matter what it brought. He was a member of AA for 34 years and lived his spiritual life with A Course in Miracles, which gave him direction, joy, and love. He only saw the positive in every challenge, refusing to be defeated in caring for his patients, refusing to give less than all he could, refusing to believe right could not prevail. He was the eternal optimist and spread this to all in his life. He had opinions and was not afraid to express them, sometimes forcefully, but always to benefit others. His protection of his patients was his primary goal, and he succeeded. They were teammates.

Jim was busy. When not working, he was planning trips and vacations to every corner of the earth and dragging friends and loved ones with him. He wanted only that everyone had a great time and was fond of saying there was only one rule: "no drama". There are so many amazing memories of people and places. Life Is Truly Wonderful. He was great fun to be with and brought you into his soul and love and made you smile. He really loved people and was greatly blessed by their love.

In lieu of flowers and donations, Jim wished that those he brought together continue to share their lives with one another.

He was happy. And blessed.