Lee Dixon Woolley passed away in Paris, Texas, at the age of 80 on October 6 after a courageous fight with a lengthy illness.

After graduating with a business degree from Sul Ross University, Woolley—known to most as Dick—and his wife, Sandra, left family and friends in Fort Davis and moved to Cisco, where he launched his lifetime career in banking. He rose quickly from a teller position to president of the First National Bank in Cisco, where he served in that role for more than 30 years. When he was named to lead the bank at age 32, he was the youngest bank president in Texas. In addition to his education at Sul Ross University, Woolley went on to earn a master’s degree from Southern Methodist University.

Woolley loved Cisco and West Texas and enthusiastically donated his time and leadership to the region, serving on more than 20 boards of communities, colleges and hospitals—typically serving on multiple boards of directors at once. After retiring from the bank, he enjoyed many years working on his farm and making lifelong friends in the cattle and ranching business.

Woolley loved people, never met a stranger, had compassion for all and was always fair and just in his dealings. He had a great sense of humor and taught his family how to laugh at both accomplishments and shortcomings. He is survived by his wife, Sandra, two sons, one daughter and 11 grandchildren, among many additional family and friends. The family welcomes donations to WISE as an expression of sympathy instead of flowers. WISE is the Woolley Institute for Spoken-Language Education, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to teaching deaf children with cochlear implants and hearing aids to speak.