Aubrey Lee, Sr. Banking Executive, Dies At 80

DETROIT (WWJ) - Sadness over the passing of Aubrey Lee, Sr., the trailblazing banking executive who touched the lives of many in metro Detroit over the years.

Lee lifted others as he climbed the corporate ladder, many would say, with humility, grace and wisdom.

New Detroit President Shirley Stancato, was hired by Lee at National Bank of Detroit:

"He had a master's degree and worked as a teller," said Stancato. "Back in the 1950's when African Americans couldn't get jobs, but he did it with such respect, such integrity, always with his head held high and that's what all of us and each of us - had to look up to. He clearly was a role model."

Lee broke ground at NBD Bank where, in 1966, he became the bank's first African American to reach managerial status.

Lee, hired more minorities and when given the opportunity, offered commercial loans to more minority business and churches.

He served on the boards at Beaumont Hospital and Walsh College. Lee was 80.

Find more information about viewing and funeral arrangements [here].