Lee was born in Austin, to Harold Leland Pannell and Fay Owen Pannell.

The family later moved to the Owen family farm in Bastrop County, where Lee attended high school.

Lee’s life took him through several exciting and successful career paths. After high school, he moved to the Port Aransas/Corpus Christi area and worked in fishing, shrimping and workboats, eventually buying and captaining a shrimp boat. He then worked in printing and newspapers, owning three small newspapers in Bastrop, Italy and Ferris, along with a print shop.

He then joined the oil and gas industry. He worked first as a mud logger. After graduating from Corpus Christi State University he became a Geologist and Landman.

Lee was an avid photographer who enjoyed doing his own developing and printing.

He was a scholar of all things Texas, and president of the historic Oak Hill Cemetery Association.

He loved old cars, owning two Model A Fords, one of which was his first car.

He worked and ranched on the family farm his whole life. He was the “critter magnet,” loving all animals, especially strays. And, he had a wicked sense of humor.

Lee is survived by his wife of 41 years, Jeanne Elleven Pannell; his son, William Pannell; his sister, Peggy Adams; and his loyal companions, Cookie and the cats.

Family and friends will gather for a graveside service Friday, Dec. 15, at 11 a.m. at Oak Hill Cemetery, South of McDade, with Pastor Jimmie Cottle presiding.