William Lee Seay

William Lee Seay, Sr, lovingly known as “BrokeAsHell” was born Tuesday, January 25, 1945 in Manassas, Georgia, in Tattnall County to the parentage of the late Governor Booker T. Washington Sr and the late Varnie Lee Moore Seay..

William Lee Seay was educated in the Tattnall County school system before honorably serving his country in the United States Army for 12 years. During his military service, he served in the Vietnam War, where he distinguished himself through his dedication and courage. In recognition of his service, he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, the Vietnam Campaign Medal with Device (1960), the Good Conduct Medal, and the Vietnam Service Medal with Bronze Star. His final overseas assignment was in Korea. William’s military career reflected his steadfast commitment to duty, honor, and service to his nation.

William Lee Seay was a lifelong member of Mt. Moriah Missionary Baptist Church, where he faithfully served as a Deacon and occasionally sang in the church choir. He was a man of many talents and interests. While many knew him for his devotion to his faith, family, and community, fewer knew of his love for music. William had a natural musical ability and could not only sing but also play both the guitar and piano. In his leisure time, he enjoyed the outdoors and was an avid fisherman and hunter. His leisure interest brought him great joy throughout his life and created lasting memories for those who shared in his passion.

William “BrokeAsHell” Seay fought the good fight and kept the faith. On Sunday, June 7, 2026, the Lord called and William answered and entered into his eternal rest at home on Zion. He was preceded in death by his siblings Governor Booker T. “Bud” Washington Jr, Norris Seay and Elise Branch.

He leaves to cherish his fond memories: a life partner of 20 years Lawanda Carwell, of Collins, GA, four sons: William Seay (Rose) Brewton, of Glennville, GA, Anthony Seay, William Lee Seay Jr., both of Columbus, OH, and Shelton Seay, of Raeford, NC., Five daughters: Melisa (Charlie) Knight, of Jesup, GA, LaRonda Seay Hawkins, of Warner Robins, GA, Shawn Seay, of Aberdeen, NC, Nadine Seay of Walthourville, GA., and a bonus daughter Tonya Taylor, of Columbus, GA. Five sisters: Annie Ruth (Henry) Mikell, Willa (Clifford) Ford, Mary Ann Foote, LaRhonda (Darryle) Thompson all located in Massachusetts and Charlotte Burns Milwaukee, WI, five brothers: Benjamin Seay, Melvin Seay, Alonzo Seay, Harvey Brewton all of Massachusetts and James (Della) Seay of California.

He had 24 grandchildren and 25 great grandchildren and a host of relatives which includes aunts, uncles, nephews, nieces, cousins and friends. Two special nieces Yolonda Conger and Geneva Moore, both of Collins, GA.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at the chapel of Glennville Funeral Home

A Homegoing Celebration is scheduled for Wednesday, June 17, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at the chapel of Glennville Funeral Home with Rev. Artis Carswell officiating. 

Interment will follow at Georgia Veterans Cemetery with military honors rendered by the United States Army.

Pallbearers will be John C. Hawkins Jr, Sylvester Johnson, Calvin McNeal, Roy Scott, Alfred Smith, and Joe Reynolds