Lee Eugene "Bud" Fritts passed away in his home in Maryville on June 27, 2025, at the age of 100.

He was a proud Marine veteran, an avid gardener, and a skilled, self-taught carpenter, who built two of his family's homes.

Lee was predeceased by his wife of 63 years, Mary; daughter Diane; and sister, Doris Sterling.  He is survived by three children, Susan (Don) Ketchum, Lee (Alice), and David (Melanie Lee); six grandchildren; ten great grandchildren; and two great, great grandchildren.

Born in Knoxville to Charles Boyd and Irene (Hooks) Fritts, Lee grew up on his grandparents' farm until the age of 13, when he moved with his father to Cleveland, Ohio. At 17, Lee joined the Marines and served in the Pacific during World War II until he was severely wounded. After his recovery, he worked for Union Carbide and the Cleveland Electric Illuminating Company in Ashtabula, Ohio. Upon retirement to Maryville in 1981, Lee devoted time to gardening and home improvement projects, sharing his knowledge and talents with neighbors and family. Lee and Mary traveled extensively throughout the U.S., visiting family and old friends and attending Marine reunions and Western movie festivals.

There will be a Receiving of Friends at Fairview United Methodist Church on July 22, at 11:00, followed by a service at noon. Lee will be honored in a ceremony at the Veterans Cemetery at 2:00, for family only. If friends would like to remember Lee, in lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Semper Fi & America's Fund or the Farragut Folklife Museum, or consider donating to a charitable cause that will honor your own memories of him —and share your summer tomatoes with neighbors and local food bank.  Arrangements made by Miller Funeral Home 915 W. Broadway Maryville TN, 37801.