William Lee Lonesome was born on June 24, 1907, in Charleston, West Virginia, to Benjamin Lonesome and Helen Ella Thompson. He received his A.B. Degree from West Virginia State College in 1933 and a J.D. degree from Howard University in 1936. He was the recipient of many honorary degrees, including an honorary degree of doctor of laws from Wilberforce University, Edward Waters College, and doctor of humanities from West Virginia State College. He was a practicing attorney in Charleston, West Virginia, for over 42 years. Lonesome served as the legal advisor and Second Vice President of the Judicial Council of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. He was a member of the Board of Trustees of Wilberforce University and was Campaign Coordinator of Minorities in 1976 for the election of Jimmy Carter to the US Presidency. Lonesome served as Grand Sire Archon of Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity from 1958 to 1960. He died on November 19, 1982, leaving a legacy of community service.