Lee Hoots, a respected writer and editor of leading hunting and shooting magazines for more than three decades, died February 6, 2026, in Prescott Valley, Arizona, due to early-onset dementia. He was just 57.
Lee began his outdoor writing career at the age of 20 with Western Outdoor News. In 1997, he joined Outdoor Sportsmen Group, formerly Petersen's Publishing, writing for their publications and serving as editor of Rifle Shooter, Wing & Shot, and Hunting. In 1997, he became editor of Petersen's flagship publication, Guns & Ammo.
In 2009, he moved to Prescott, Arizona, to join Wolfe Publishing, reflecting his lifelong passion for the outdoors. He was best known as editor of Wolfe Publishing's Handloader and Rifle magazines. Throughout his career, Lee hunted across North and South America, Africa, and Asia.
Born October 10, 1968, in Anaheim, California, Lee attended John F. Kennedy High School in La Palma and Cypress College. At 20, he met the love of his life, Linda Harb. Together for 37 years and married for 31, Linda was by his side when he passed. He is survived by his wife, Linda; their three adult children, Amanda, Logan, and Dakota, his mother Winifred Hoots, his sister Robin Kite, and his nephew Jacob Kite. Lee's love of hunting and fishing began in childhood alongside his father, Luther Leroy Hoots. The outdoors was where he felt most at peace—grounded, genuine, and true to himself. He will be remembered for his passion, his dedication to his craft, and the stories he leaves behind.
A memorial service was held at Saturday, February 21, 2026, in Prescott, Arizona.