William Francis Coady, 76, died unexpectedly on April 12th in Somerville.

Known as Lee, he grew up in Milton and Cohasset, graduating from Cohasset High School in 1965 and the University of Massachusetts Amherst in 1969. Sharp-witted, intelligent and well-read, Lee loved engaging in political discussions; much to his adversary's peril. A true cinephile, he was known for his sense of humor, his killer skills on the dance floor, his fabulous sense of style, and his appreciation of Boston's vast history. Lee also will be remembered for his drink of choice (Diet Coke) and the fedora hat perched on his head. He shared an infectious smile and a wicked laugh.

Lee had careers in the food service industry (including managing the Museum of Fine Arts' flagship restaurant) and real estate. He was a longtime realtor at several residential firms across Boston. Lee lived on Beacon Hill, in the South End, Dorchester, Brookline, Brighton and, most recently, Somerville. He will be missed by his friends at Bryant Manor, especially Carmen Baez.

Most importantly to Lee, he was involved in the early years of the AIDS Action Committee of Boston as an active volunteer, organizer and advocate. Launched in 1983, it is now New England's oldest and largest AIDS service organization. His tireless work and indelible contribution to AIDS Action was later profiled in the December 1987 issue of Boston Globe Magazine (as a sign of the times, it was this article that confirmed his identity as a gay man to his own mother). He enjoyed a very close bond with his brother Peter, who died of AIDS in 1988. The time they spent together, living in a shared building overlooking Blackstone Square in the South End, were among Lee's fondest memories. He also had special and long-lasting relationships with his nephew, Troy, his niece, Micaela, and his Sister-in-Law, Mary.

Lee was resilient and overcame challenging health conditions throughout his time. Though a recovering alcoholic with chronic health issues, Lee endured and was able to enjoy a long and fruitful life, along the way sharing invaluable wisdom and compassion with those closest to him.

He was predeceased by his parents, Eunice M. Coady and Francis R. Coady, and his brothers, Francis, Paul, Mark and Peter. He is survived by his siblings and their spouses, Dennis and Mary Coady of Scituate, Margaret (Cissie) and Larry Cullivan of Williamsburg, VA, Greg and Sue Coady of Plymouth, Lisa Coady and Michael Maso of Brookline and Truro, Sean Coady of Hull, and Judy and Don Paul Benzaquin of Duxbury. Along with Troy Coady and Micaela Coady, 'Uncle Lee' leaves many nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held in Brookline in the summer.