Richard Lee Nixon (“Lee”) was born January 3, 1939 in Bonners Ferry, Idaho to William J. and Eva Jane Nixon. William practiced law and raised shorthorn cattle. Eva Jane was a school teacher. Lee, the youngest, joined older brothers Robert “Bob” and William “Bill” Nixon. 

The Nixon family moved to Great Falls, Montana while Lee was in high school and Lee graduated from Great Falls High School in 1957. Lee attended Montana State where he received a Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture. 

After receiving his degree, Lee moved back to Great Falls. It was then, in 1963, Lee met the love of his life, Patricia “Pat” Skerritt, a school teacher. Lee and Pat met in a church group, and ended up being one of six couples in the group to marry. Lee and Pat married August 2, 1964, remaining inseparable for the next 62 years. 

Sons Alex and Randall “Randy” were born in Great Falls. The young family moved to Billings, Montana in 1970. Lee worked as an architect, primarily with DG Architects, until he retired. Although most of his work was commercial, Lee designed and built the family home he and Pat resided in until his passing. 

First and foremost, Lee was a dedicated husband and father. He selflessly devoted his time to Alex and Randy. Many will remember him as a Scout Master or Little League baseball coach, but Alex and Randy best remember fly fishing trips to Red Lodge. Lee and the boys loved fishing together, and most family trips involved looking for a roadside stream. For Lee’s 80th birthday, Randy arranged a trip for Lee, Alex, and himself to fish in Belize. The accompanying picture shows Lee getting pins for catching a tarpon, permit, and bonefish. He was the only one in the group to get all three. Throughout his life, Lee’s pride and love for his boys was unmistakable. 

After Randy and his wife Heather had two girls, Chloe and Carlee, Lee became a loving grandfather. Lee adored his granddaughters and cherished Chloe and Carlee’s many accomplishments. 

In addition to his family, Lee had a lifelong love for singing. Lee sang for several church choirs, the Magic City Singers, and the Leisure World Chorus (Arizona). Lee was also very artistic and enjoyed pottery, painting with watercolors, drawing, working in the lapidary, and jewelry making. After retiring, Lee focused more on his artwork and enjoyed golfing. Lee also enjoyed raising irises. 

Lee was also dedicated to his community. Notably he served on a number of church boards, taught Sunday School groups, and served as Billings Food Bank board member. Lee and Pat were charter members of Hope United Methodist Church in the Heights. In addition to being a member, Lee helped design the church. 

Lee is survived by Pat, Alex (Deirdre McNamer) of Red Lodge, Randy and Heather, of Reno, Nevada, Chloe Nixon, of Chicago, Illinois, Carlee Nixon, of Reno, Nevada, as well as several brothers and sisters in law and many loved nieces and nephews and their children. Lee was preceded in passing by his parents and brothers. 

Lee’s unmistakable laugh and infectious smile will be remembered and treasured by all family and friends. He will be greatly missed. 

The family asks that anyone wishing to make a donation in Lee’s memory consider the Billings Food Bank https://billingsfoodbank.com/donate/, Hope United Methodist Church https://secure.myvanco.com/YNDE/home, or any other worthy cause you think Lee would appreciate. 

A memorial service will be held this Saturday at 11:00 a.m. at Hope United Methodist Church.