Deacon Amos Lewis

~Service Held ~

Sunday, November 16, 2014 1:00PM

Lovely Hill Baptist Conference Center 5905 W. Jim Bilton Blvd.

St. George, SC 29477 Officiating Ministers

Rev. Keith L. Buckner, Pastor & Eulogist Greater St. James Missionary Baptist Church 2396 Harry T. Moore Avenue Mims, FL 32754

Bishop Cleveion Ferguson, Sr., Presiding Soul Reapers Pentecostal Church Miami, FL

Arrangements under the Directions of: Lewis-Ray Mortuary, Inc. “Built on Faith – Blessed with the Fruits” 1595 S. Hopkins Avenue Titusville, FL 32780 (321) 269-5811 * (321) 269-0180 Fax www.lewisraymortuary.com

Stevens Funeral Home 107 S. Parler Avenue St. George, SC 29477 (843) 563-4455 * (843) 701-0127 Lamont Stevens, L.F.D.

J. E. Cusack Mortuary 727 S. Stone Street Deland, FL 32720 (386) 734-3831 * (386) 734-2008 Fax James E. Cusack, L.F.D.

Wiseman Mortuary Inc. 431 Cumberland Street Fayetteville, NC (910) 483-7111 Valdus T. Lockhart, L.F.D.

Owens Funeral Home 216 Lenox Avenue New York, NY 10027 (212) 427-7888 Isaiah Owens, L.F.D.

“Look Where He’s Brought Me From”

Look where He’s brought me from...

“Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee….”

Jeremiah 1:5 Born of teenage parents, Rannie Jenkins Phillips and Julius Phillips, it was predestined Amos Lewis be reared in the home of Archie Lewis and Idella Fields Lewis from the age of three days old.

It was with love, adoration, and prayerful guidance his parents shaped and nurtured him into a man of integrity.

At the tender age of 10 Archie and his son, Amos were left to fend for themselves after the death of Idella.

“Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” ~Proverbs 22:6

Remembering the love and joy watching his mom served the Lord, Amos joined St. Mark Baptist Church in his youth. He attended faithfully, singing in the choir and hung out with the older men of the church. It was while at St. Mark he learned the “deacon’s prayer”.

It was said “that ole boy of Archies’s didn’t act like the typical young men.” In their own way they acknowledged God’s hand at work.

“Come, let us sing for joy to the Lord; let us shout aloud to the Rock of our salvation. Let us come before him with thanksgiving and extol him with music and song.� ~ Psalm 95:1 - 2 NIV

He was known for his melodious tenor voice and traveled the various cities with the SC Dixie Aires.

Not just thinking of himself, he refused a lucrative career on the gospel circuit by refusing a position with the famous Suwannee Quartet.

Family always came first with Amos.

Amos continued singing for his church, his beloved Dixie Aires, and anywhere else the opportunity provided until another chapter in his life opened.

“Live joyfully with the wife whom you love all the days of your life which God has given you under the sun…” ~ Ecclesiastes 9:9

Pursuing the princess of the Texas Community, he captured the heart of Bessie Ruth Britt. It is said on their wedding day, November 3, 1952, Cal and Emmaline Britt did not attend their daughter’s wedding. (She was the only one they could afford to send to college.) It would be her sister-in-law, Princess Marion Britt who gave her away.

Amos would spend the next several years proving he was worthy of their daughter.

“The wife shall be as a fruitful vine by the sides of thine house: thy children like olive plants round about thy table.” ~ Psalms 128:3 They resided in the community becoming the parents of three children; Deloris, Kenneth and Mitchell. Amos built his family a home but it would be many years later before they would occupy it.

Two weeks prior to the Christmas Holidays in 1957, Amos along with five others lost their jobs. This seemed to be the most devastating news a young father could receive. Even then God was at work in his life orchestrating the tunes. In his own words he states “something” told him to go to Florida and the rest is history………..

“For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” ~ Jeremiah 29:11

“Speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord.” ~ Ephesians 5:19 NIV

The beginning was a struggle for the young family, but GOD opened many doors for Amos and he was blessed. Another son, Amos Milton, was added to the family. The parents became a vital part of the Mims community.

He formed a gospel group called the Mighty Willing Gospel Singers which he managed. There was still something missing from his life.

Amos reconnected with the church and joined St. James Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Rev. Robert Peterson. Amos became an integral part of the ministry serving wherever he was needed.

He sang in the choir and was ordained a deacon in the mid 60’s and has served the body of Christ ever since. He was instrumental in planning the church’s anniversaries and various activities appealing to the lost. He was truly a pastor’s deacon, a responsibility he took very serious. He loved lining hymns and some of his favorites were: “A Charge, #293 Father I Stretch My Hands to thee, #350 Come ye that love the Lord, #449 Must Jesus Bear the Cross Alone, #487, I Heard the Voice of Jesus say, #492, Amazing Grace, #559, “Go Preach my Gospel,” and #661, That Awful Day Will Surely Come.”

“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God which is your reasonable service.� ~Romans 12:1 KJV

He hosted the first black gospel program in Brevard County and continued until the station underwent management changes. The radio station soon recognized the mistake made when ratings went down. Someone was listening to that old gospel program. Amos did not return and others that followed were not as successful.

He was responsible for bringing many famous gospel groups to the Brevard County area, such as the Mighty Clouds of Joy, Five Blind Boys of Alabama, Swan Silvertones, Rev. Willingham & the Swanee Quartet and the Consolers of Miami.

“A good man leaveth an inheritance to his children’s children:” ~ Proverbs 13:22

Following his dreams and relying on past experience, Amos opened Sunset Funeral Home of Titusville in 1970, the second Black owned funeral home in Brevard County. Through many obstacles and challenges, he never gave up hope. In 1982 Lewis-Ray Mortuary was birthed and continues to serve families with the same principles he believed in. It took a lot of guts for a man without any formal training to branch out in such an endeavor, but his faith held strong. He took no credit for himself, instead saying, “look where the Lords brought me from.”

The circle now complete, Amos has spent his latter years giving back to the community locally and in SC, encouraging others, witnessing to everyone, praying for anyone and sharing the good news of Jesus Christ.

“Children if you don’t know Jesus, get to know Him.”

“Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope.” ~ 1 Thessalonians 4:13 NIV

Although his heart was broken from the death of his wife and best friend, whom he lovingly called “Skeeter”, he relied on the Lord’s mending power.

He mourned deeply from the sudden death of his beloved son, Kenny, but still held on to his faith.

He reminded us and himself, “we didn’t come here to stay so whenever the Lord calls, be ready.”

As we watched the decline in his health, it was imperative to help keep a promise to his good friend, Rev. D. Luther Bell. He strongly believed a man’s word is his bond. So after much preparation, one last fishing trip was planned and the family headed to Helen, GA. He and the colonel (Rev. Bell) flew. God granted him the strength to catch his own fish and enjoy the fellowship of his friend. The time was bittersweet as this was the first time he’d fished since Kenny’s death. Though we were younger, stronger, but daddy had the biggest catch. What a mighty man!

Cherishing the legacy of a humble man of faith are his devoted children: Deloris Lewis-Ray Ferguson (David) of Titusville, FL, Mitchell D. Lewis of Mims, FL, Amos M. Lewis and the sons and daughter of his heart, Henry AL & Janice Carmichael and Dennis Young, all of Titusville, FL; beloved grandchildren, Wendy Ray, Michael & Antoinette James, Amory & Rhonda James, Rontaveus Lewis, Rhea Ray, Nishelle & Tony Banner, Chantal Sherrod, Brooke Rich, Carlos & Azariah Carmichael, and Daron Woods; great-grandchildren, Kobe, Kailene, Travis, Korron, Korie, Kora, Tristian, Talayiah, Koen, Kenneth, Keyon, Kourtney, AJ, Ariana, Micah, Dontay & Deja and Asia; four great-great grandchildren; siblings, Morris Phillips, Shirley Britt, Jeremiah Phillips (Martha), James Kelly, Sr., Woodrow Edwards, Bernice K. Shafer; special sisters, Margaret B. Stokes and Clara D. Britt; aunts/uncles, Thaddeus Jenkins, Willie Mae Ross, and John W. Lewis; special devoted cousins, Idella W. Primus, Elden Williams and Leroy Williams; brothers-in-law, Edward Felder and Robert Felder; godchildren, Emma Bryant Bannister, Wanda Taylor, Gretchen Williams, Vincent Britt (Jeanette), and Menetta Osborne (Robert).

“He was more than an uncle. He was a father to those who didn’t have a dad whether it was due to neglect or death, Uncle Amos was there for all of us.”

He is also survived by those who regarded him as a stand in father figure, his nieces and nephews: Virginia, Gertrude, Miley (Dixie), Robert, Rose, Gloria (Billy), Pat (Jasper), Jenny (Joe), Flo (Leamon), Alvin (Karen), Josey (Mac), Alexander, Iris (Sammy), James K., Jr., Sharon (Herman), Morris (Lucy), Sylvester, Jeffery (Keli), Sharon W. (Byron), Geneva, Bertha, Mildred, Shirley Ann, Phyllis Ann, Edna; numerous other great nieces, nephews, cousins, his Greater St. James Family and community friends.

Others who regarded him as Pops, Dad, Dec or Elder and his extended family: Tommy L. Myers, Kevin Knowles, Betty Evans, Sudella Gilmore, Rev. Michael J. Brown, Denise Reed, Charmaine Sherrod, Dorothy and Linda Newton, D’Arcy Nardone, III (Sharon) and Dontavius Wilcox.

We shall always remember the many stories he shared with us regarding lessons learned from his “Poppa”. Now our stories will begin with “Pops” told me…..and the story continues!

Celebration of a Life Well-Lived! “……..The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord.”

Psalm 33:23

Musical Prelude......................................................................Greater St. James Baptist Church & Co. Clergy & Family Processional with Viewing Selection.........................................................................Greater St. James Missionary Baptist Church Prayer of Comfort...............................................................................................Rev. Amory M. James

(grandson) Associate Minister, New Direction Evangelical Church Richmond, VA

Scripture:

2 Chronicles 7:1 – 14........................................................................................Rev. Alvin Britt

(nephew) Pastor of St. Luke Missionary Baptist Church Fleming Island, FL

Selection.........................................................................Greater St. James Missionary Baptist Church

Generational Tributes: Mr. James E. Cusack Mr. DaRon D. Woods

Selection............................................................................................Greater St. James Baptist Church Resolutions & Acknowledgements.........................................Lewis-Ray Mortuary Staff & Company Lined Hymn #293 “Father I Stretch My Hand to Thee” The Message....................................................................................................Pastor Keith L. Buckner Altar Call Recessional..................................................................................................................................Choirs “Look Where He’s Brought Me From”

We Remember

Pops

Sayings

The old man holding on.

The old man ain’t hitting on nothing.

Child keep on going to bed and getting up in the morning.

Drive it like your pocket can stand it.

Child just as sure as you ugly.

If preachers gone toheaven hell must be gonna to move.

Palos put the old man jacket on The old man shot the juice to it.

Throw it in the hole Tommie.

Work on it Fiker Jr. It ain’t gonna work like that.

You can’t tell these devilish children nothing.

Poppa told me that these days would come.

Poppa didn’t raise no fool Dennis, if ya head wasn’t attached to your body you would lose that too.

Might not feel good to you but it feel good to the old man Run it children God say you do right and he will bless you

Children’s Tribute We Thank God for You, Daddy

Daddy there are so many things we can say about you, but as time draws nearer, I remember one of your sayings, and that was “make it easy on yourself”.

There are many precious memories we each have of you, some hilarious and some we could never repeat. Mom always taught us to be discreet. So, I’ve gathered a few of the cards we’ve given you over the years, rewriting the words through eyes filled with tears.

You are a special man who knows the strength of gentleness, who gives the gift of thoughtfulness, who lived a life of goodness and of love.

More than once, we’ve been encouraged by your strength, comforted by your faith, and inspired by your example.

You always encouraged us to do our best no matter the task. You taught us to go after what we wanted, giving it our all and be an honest winner.

We didn’t need a famous actor, sports player, or millionaire; you were our hero and role model. All we needed to do was watch you...the way you lived your life, the kindness you extended to others, the way you were slow to judge, but quick to lend a hand. You taught us to treat all people fairly and always truthful. When we failed, you corrected us and told us we could start again. Giving up was not an option.

What you’ve given us will always be part of who we are. Strong in our faith, compassionate toward our fellow man, maintaining integrity in business, and remembering that love is always a gift that can never be replaced, but most of all honoring God in everything we do.

Daddy, you were truly a blessed man, and we thank God for You!

Dee, Pibb & Mitch

To Amos Lewis better known as “POPS” As we sat trying to put in words, as to what we are feeling at this time. Words cannot express the many years we have shared. It began with Al, then Janice, then Carlos and Azariah. You accepted all of us as your children, you were always the same. We will never forget you are the many sayings that you have left embedded in our Hearts.

A special pops is hard to find.

You pops we are keeping in our minds.

We wish you could live forever But we will never forget you oh no not ever.

If dreams weren’t dreams and dreams come true We wouldn’t be here we would be with you.

Distance is one thing that keeps us apart But pops you will always remain in our hearts.

A special smile, a special face, a special someone we can’t replace.

We love you and always will You filled a space that no one will ever replace.

Love, The Carmicheal’s

Granddchildren’s Tribute

Often we concentrate too hard on where we are going that we forget where we come from. We focus on things that we want and forget to be thankful for the things we have.

Family, unity, love, hard work and perseverance are things that all humanity must experience.

Today I want to acknowledge and thank my Grandfather Amos Lewis for so many things; from teaching me how to earn an honest dollar, to showing me how to care for and treat my family and the love of my life. My Grandfather implanted morals and values in me that I now teach my children. Today I am honored to have his blood in my veins, to be a part of his legacy, to help carry on his name. I ask God to give me the strength to walk in the path he has laid out for me. I am Michael James, first grandson to one of the greatest men to have lived.

See you when I get there Granddad. Love you

Dear Granddaddy, I am putting to print some things I have already expressed to you.

Words cannot begin to describe how much I love and appreciate you and all you have done for me. You have shown and taught me so many things. When I first came into your life, you took me in “as is” as they say. We had so many conversations and life learning talks.

I would so look forward to first Sunday when the senior choir would sing, because that meant you would have a solo, or you would throw your twist to whatever song was being sung. I loved seeing you rear your head back and say “ooooooooooo” and then continue the song. As your strength weakened I prayed I would be able to hear you sing one more time. On November 2nd, God answered my prayers during your communion. It filled my heart with so much Joy and it reminded me that you are going to be just fine in His Kingdom!

There was also the time in Carolina and the van needed to go back to Titusville. Momma needed to be picked up. I was getting ready to leave and you told me “you watch those other drivers as well as pay attention to the road and to drive like my pocketbook stand”! To this day, every time I get behind the wheel of any vehicle, there you are on my shoulder telling me to drive like my pocketbook can afford it! I thank you!

As this journey started to come to a close, we went on our trip to Helen! That was a moment that I wish I could go back too! We had the best time and when we went fishing oh my goodness! You sat in your chair and threw your line in the water and the fish kept jumping on your line like you had a magnet on you and the fish had metal in them!! We had onlookers come over to comment on how blessed we were to have you with us; to still be able to have the experience and time together.

I remember walking in the house everyday and saying “hey granddaddy, how are you doing today?” You would say “hey baby, old man holding on!” I’m going to miss your sayings!! Oh how I am going to miss you granddaddy!!!!!

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for all you have done, taught and exposed me to. Thank you for the wisdom and the talks we shared. I will forever hold them in my heart!

So I am not going to say goodbye, I’m just going to say tell grandma and uncle Kenny that you have come “Home” and continue to be our angels and watch over us!

With All My Love, Wendy P.S. I will keep my promise I made to you!

Gran-daddy, a remarkable man who loved The Lord and praised him with every breath. Over these past few weeks our relationship has grown so much. I’ve had the honor of taking care of you making you as comfortable as possible. Never did I know you would be my first patient. You’ve always said, “God has a plan.” Oh, how true that has been.

As I watched you going through this process, you were truly a soldier in the Army of The Lord! Through your pain, it was always “thank you, Jesus” never once complaining.

This humbling experience has changed my life. I know my tears can’t bring you back, but Gran-daddy I can’t stop them from falling. I love you so much and I thank you, thank you, thank you for teaching me to keep striving for greater!

I know you and grandma are finally together again. So rest Gran-daddy until we meet again!

Your Baby, Scootie

Granddaddy thank you for the foundation you set and the legacy you left for us to cherish. The “Old man holding on.

Aint raisin’ no sand” can now take his rest. You lived an awesome life and fought a good fight. Never complaining and always thanking God. You will be truly missed granddaddy. I love you.

Nishelle No longer will I be able to hear your voice say, “hey Red, how you?” No longer will I be able to hear your voice say, “Just as sho’ as I’m black.” No longer will I be able to hear you tell me, “Likewise.”

I’ll miss sitting with you and just listening to you talk about how “Poppa told you bout these days,” but I will cherish every moment!

You’ve shown me through your hard work, dedication, and faithfulness that ALL things are possible. Through the adversity, you were steadfast, unmovable keeping your faith knowing that what God had for you, No man could take away!!

You loved our family dearly, providing, protecting, and serving God! You’ve touched the lives of many whether it was through your gospel music, radio show, or the office. You weren’t a man about quantity but instead a man about quality.

Knowing that your house was in order and you are now free and now back with your beautiful Queen again, brings me so much peace.

You lived a loving, fruitful life! You were a man of God, A man of faith, a Family man; You were truly a once in a lifetime man!

Love you dearly, cherishing all the beautiful memories, Chantal (Red) Words are immeasurable for the love you displayed toward me. The lessons given, the wisdom deposited will last for generations to come. You were a man of great faith and because of that I stand on shoulders of giants. Because there was an Amos and B. Ruth Lewis who sacrificed to make a dream a reality; I now stand in my life’s work.

You prayed for the Lord to send someone…I prayed for direction…. I don’t believe in luck, but only in the divine will of God. Your integrity, tenacity, passion and faith in God have brought us thus far.

As you would often state, “it takes 50 years to build it and one day to tear it down”. Your life’s work, your legacy will live on for the world to see that a great man once lived and died in humility, for the betterment of mankind. I’m going to miss “good work Jr.” as you would often say.

You prayed for the Lord to send someone…I prayed for direction…..So Pops, Lois has help, your mantel has been passed. Your shoes are too large to fill, but I will continue to make you proud.

Love, DaRon AKA Jr.

Nieces & Nephews Tribute We dedicate this tribute to Uncle Amos for all the love and support he has shown us since he became a part of our lives. When Aunt Bessie Ruth gave him her hand in marriage the two were like a king and his queen. He possessed a kings characteristics; a strong and big man. His statue was not huge, but he spoke with authority. When he spoke we listened! If we did not agree with his point of view we were not bold or old enough to show it or say it. Not because we were afraid of him but because we respected him.

We saw Uncle Amos took care of his queen, Aunt Bessie Ruth with all the mental, physical and financial power available. In our eyes we saw him instilled in his princess, Dee and his princes Kenny, Amos Milton and Mitchell how to maintain and keep the castle running smoothly with love and respect. To us uncle Amos was more than an uncle. He was a dad, brother minister of encouragement and wisdom among other things.

If he met a stranger they weren’t for long, only until he ask who they were or until they voluntarily told him who they were…and then the outburst of wisdom flowed. Family we already miss Uncle Amos and we are going to miss him more during family functions, especially at the fish fry he gave each Memorial Day morning. We must carry on his legacy by supporting caring for and loving each other.

Nieces: Gertrude and Rose

Uncle Amos, You have always been an inspiration to so many people including my family. We are so grateful for your generosity, honesty but most of all your love. It was a comfort & joy to be in your presence. You will be truly missed. But, I’m assured by the word of God that we will see you again.

The Tobin Family

A Man of Integrity Rock of ages cleft for me, let me hide myself in thee.

We thank you Lord for the blood and the water you shared on behalf of Uncle Amos. We know that through his death all the glory and honor belongs to you. He was a good man who showed favor, with discretion in his affairs. He shall forever be in everlasting remembrance, because he was a righteous man.

He spoke the truth to mankind for his neighbors were far and near. Uncle Amos showed us that he was a pattern of good works with a caring and sincere heart. Just knowing that person is there, makes life a little brighter; just feeling the love and care, makes life a little easier to bear. You have been that person; Uncle Amos. We thank him for family unity. He glorified God on earth, and finished the work God gave him to do. “O give thanks unto the Lord for he is good: for his mercy endureth forever.”

Psalm 136:1

Your nephew, Miley Britt, Jr. (Dixie), Angie, Melinda & Selena

As we give thanks to our Uncle Amos, many thoughts & memories come across our minds. Our Uncle Amos & Aunt Bessie Ruth demonstrated their love for us every time we saw them or spoke with them on the phone. They instilled in us to share our blessings with others, never expecting anything in return. It was through their love of traveling & adventure that we all came to want the same experiences for ourselves as adults. Uncle Amos could tell the most interesting stories about what it was like to work daily at Cape Canaveral. We would listen for hours and feel like we were right there as the story was being told by him.

Uncle Amos & Aunt Bessie Ruth came to St. George & picked us up during the summer just so we could spend time together.

Their love of family was very important to both of them. Their love of fish & fishing were shared with everyone they came in contact with.

We will surely miss him dearly, we will forever cherish the love, kindness & support that he showered upon us every day. We always knew that he loved us & he expected us to love each other unconditionally.

Rest in peace Uncle Amos, thank you, we love you.

Your family, Clara, Sylvester, Alvin, (Karen); Josey (Mack); Flo (Leamon), and Virgil (Kim)

As a circle has many links with no beginning & no ending, our Uncle Amos can be described as a link with the acronyms of the word C.I.R.C.L.E C = Cared for so many people.

I = Imparted into us the importance of giving & forgiveness.

R = Raised other people children as his very own - especially his nieces & nephews.

C = Countless times has given to others expecting nothing in return.

L = Loved like there’s no tomorrow E = Embraced everyone as a family, no one was a stranger.

These quality characteristics made up our Uncle Amos and if we follow him as he followed Christ, our CIRCLE will never be broken but will always mend itself when life’s struggles try to remove a link!

Stokes, Rhett & Riley family

Brother Amos, You were more like a big brother rather than a cousin. I can truly say your belief, wisdom and knowledge you have shared throughout the years with your family, friends, and everyone you came in contact with, have been well appreciated.

Your memory was so accurate. If I wanted to know something about “back in the day”, all I had to do was ask Amos. Your famous quotes were, “Papa said...”

Thank you God for blessing us with Amos! “Night, night.”

Idella

Heaven has gained a great man, a man of integrity, loving and supportive .Our uncle was a friend too many....Uncle Amos we’re going to really miss you. We can’t say that we have lost a great pioneer because when something is lost you don’t know where it where it is. Uncle we know you are resting in the Arms of Jesus. Uncle you fought a good fight, you finish your course Uncle you kept the Faith. You will forever be in our hearts. Uncle Amos we love you dearly, now take your rest.

Byron & Sharon Wilson

An Open Letter of Love and Affection Father, I thank you for giving me parents who were not perfect but believed in you. Thank you Father for parents who believed in rearing their children to fear you, and love others more than themselves. Thank you Father for allowing me 61 years to be the daughter of one of your own – a great son.

I’m blessed to have siblings who gave of themselves these past few years to care for my daddy.

They allowed me the opportunity to work and handle other affairs of the family. We are the fruits.

I’m thankful to his personal nurses, his grand-daughters, Rhea, Nishelle, Chantal and Wendy who attended him with such compassion and care.

To his special friends, Mr. Nehemiah and Mr. Brown, he always looked forward to your visits and worried about your well-being, if he hadn’t seen you in a week. He craved for news about his church and how everything was progressing. Thank you for your friendship.

To our friends: Denise, Brenda, Cassandra, Tommy, Donna, Ma Campbell, godmama Rose, Tyaka, Fannie, Ruth & Jack, Sudella, J.C. Reese Lodge #429, and oh so many others; thank you for the delicious meals, refreshments, and relief when it was needed.

The scripture says laughter makes the heart healthy, and god-sister, Wanda, thank you for bringing many smiles to daddy’s face.

Words could never convey how grateful I am to our family who traveled hundreds of miles to visit with your brother, uncle, and cousin. Your support is and has always been sustenance. The daily, weekly calls or text were appreciated.

To Pastors Keith L. Buckner and Michael J. Brown and other keepers of the flock, thank you for your concern regarding the spirit man. Truly it has been the prayer warriors keeping us before the Lord that has given me strength for the journey.

The love of so many is overwhelming and has been displayed without restraint.

To Pops Lewis-Ray Family and associates, he is proud of you.

Grace and Peace,

Dee

~Floral Bearers ~ Floral Bearers Ushers Lewis-Ray Family & Friends

~Honorary Pallbearers ~

Deacons of Greater St. James & St. Mark Baptist Church Amos M. Lewis Mitchell D. Lewis Henry A. Carmichael Dennis W. Young

~ActiveMichael Pallbearers ~ James Rev. Amory James Rontaveous K. Lewis Tommy L. Myers Rev. Kevin Knowles Rev. Michael J. Brown Carlos Carmichael

~TemporaryBrittResting Place ~ Cemetery 2nd Texas Road St. George (Texas Community), SC

~Repast ~

Lovely Hill Dining Room