William Lee Masters Jr.

1958 - 2020

William (Bill) Lee Masters Jr., age 62, of Indianapolis, passed away the morning of November 28, 2020, at his home with his devoted partner Jeff at his side.

Bill was born August 14, 1958 in Cape Canaveral, Florida to William and Mary Ann (Miles) Masters. He was raised in Herrin, Illinois.

Bill is survived by his partner of nine years Jeffrey Reynolds; his beloved dog Sofie; four brothers and one sister: Bruce (Kathy) Masters of Gilbert, AZ; Bart (Cathy) Masters of Shiloh, IL; Mark Masters of Eldorado, IL; Brett Masters of Herrin, IL; and Melinda (Frank) Wheatley of Lakeland, FL. Also surviving are many nieces and nephews. Bill’s parents and brothers, Mike, Brian, and Blair Masters, preceded him in death.

Bill was a graduate of Herrin High School Class of 1976 and attended John A. Logan College, Carterville, IL. From college, Bill moved to southern California where he lived for 25 years, primarily in Long Beach. After California, Bill lived in Virginia and North Carolina, where he easily adapted to Southern living, culture, and especially cooking. He met Jeff in Greensboro in the spring of 2011 when Jeff traveled to North Carolina for his nephew’s college graduation. Bill relocated to Indianapolis the following year to begin a new life with Jeff.

Bill was employed by Costco at the Signal Hill store for 20 years while living in Long Beach. He subsequently spent years in the furniture industry after returning east before ending his sales career with the furniture department at Macy’s Castleton Square store.

Bill loved to laugh. Anyone who knew him will remember his quick wit and infectious sense of humor. He loved his pets and nature. Bill enjoyed sitting on the deck at home watching the birds at the feeders and wildlife in the backyard. Bill’s photographs of these creatures, the flowers, and landscapes serve as treasured mementos of his appreciation for the simple beauty in life. Bill began his day by scouring his favorite websites for news of current events and pop culture. He was an avid music fan and loved to travel even if it was just a day trip in the car or a drive across town to explore one of the city’s diverse neighborhoods. We will love him always and miss him forever.

The family would like to thank the many doctors, nurses, and staff at IU Methodist Hospital and Ascension St. Vincent Hospital for the care and attention they provided Bill during his final months. Their kindness and concern were a comfort to Jeff at that time.

Bill’s wish was to be cremated. A memorial celebration is indefinitely postponed due to the pandemic. A private service for the family may be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, charitable contributions to the American Diabetes Association and the American Heart Association are suggested in memory of William Masters.