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Robert Lee Brazell, 84

Robert Lee Brazell, also known as “Billy Blue Monday” during the years he played music locally, passed away peacefully on March 17, 2018. He had lived in the Spirit Lake area for 38 years.

He was born in Okemah, Okla., on Feb. 1, 1934. His family traveled to many states and settled near Indio, Calif., where he attended and graduated from Coachella Valley High School. His sport in school was pole vaulting, which ended with an injured back.

He was in the Army from 1957 through 1961 and served in Korea, where he and a few other soldiers constructed an orphanage for the homeless children. During this time, someone brought him a two year-old Korean boy for the orphanage and Robert legally adopted him after he returned to the United States. His son was his pride and joy as was his daughter, who was also adopted later.

Music was his big love and he played with many of the old country stars, like Lefty Frizzell, who was a close friend, Little Jimmy Dickens, Bobby Bare, Billy Mize and Merle Haggard in California and Las Vegas. He was a natural on stage; did some comedy and had a bundle of energy! He played guitar, drums and harmonica, and had a beautiful, soft, tenor voice.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Bill and Clara Brazell; sisters, Lola Chittum and Laveda Hill; and brother, Johnny Brazell. Robert is survived by wife, Sharon (Katy) Brazell; son, Buddy Lee Brazell and daughter, Anna Ernst; 33 grandchildren and great-grandchildren; sisters, Jerri Brazell, Marie Rolofson, Helen Kipp, Sydna Ornbaum; and brothers, Donald Brazell and Eddie Brazell; as well as many nieces and nephews, most of whom live in the Porterville, Calif., area.

A memorial service is pending at this time. Yates Funeral Home is entrusted with final arrangements. Please visit Robert’s online memorial and sign his guest book at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.