Memory of James Edward Lewis, Sr.

In Loving Memory of James Edward Lewis, Sr.
June 3, 1939 – August 1, 2025

James Edward Lewis, Sr., 86, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and community pillar, passed away peacefully on Friday, August 1, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. A native of Roanoke, Virginia, James was born on June 3, 1939, to the late Samuel and Eloise Lewis. His passing marks the end of a life filled with purpose, compassion, and unwavering dedication to family, faith, and service.

James, affectionately known as “Jim” or “Pops” by those closest to him, lived a life rich in experience and defined by integrity. He was a man of quiet strength, known for his wisdom, humility, and the steady guidance he offered to everyone blessed to know him. Raised in a tight-knit Roanoke neighborhood, James attended Lucy Addison High School, where he first showed signs of the leadership and kindness that would become the hallmarks of his life.

After graduating, James proudly served his country in the United States Army during the early years of the Vietnam War. His time in the military shaped his disciplined nature and strengthened his sense of duty and resilience. Upon returning home, he pursued a career in public service and worked for over three decades at the U.S. Postal Service, where he became a respected and dependable figure, both to his colleagues and the countless members of the community he served daily.

James married the love of his life, Jane Inez Lewis, with whom he shared 61 beautiful years of marriage. Their union was a testament to enduring love, patience, and partnership. Together, they built a home grounded in faith, generosity, and mutual respect. Their bond was an inspiration to all who knew them.

James was a devoted father to his three children: James Jr., Karen, and Michael, each of whom carries forward his values, compassion, and work ethic. He was a proud grandfather to seven grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, all of whom were his pride and joy. Whether it was cheering from the sidelines of a football game, attending recitals, or offering a quiet word of advice, James was a constant presence in the lives of those he loved.

Deeply rooted in his faith, James was a lifelong member of Shiloh Baptist Church in Roanoke, where he served as a deacon, choir member, and Sunday school teacher. He believed in living out the Gospel through action—offering support to the sick, mentoring young men in the community, and participating in outreach programs that extended far beyond the church walls.

In addition to his professional and spiritual commitments, James was a passionate gardener, avid reader of history, and lover of jazz music. He found peace in tending to his roses and vegetables, often giving away his harvest to friends and neighbors. His front porch was a favorite gathering place, where he’d share stories of the past, wisdom for the present, and hope for the future.

James is preceded in death by his parents, his siblings Clara Mae Thompson and Rev. Walter Lewis, and his beloved daughter-in-law, Denise Lewis. His memory will live on through his wife Jane; his children James Jr. (Angela), Karen (Darryl), and Michael (Lisa); his grandchildren: Jalen, Marcus, Simone, Jasmine, Elijah, Tia, and Noah; his great-grandchildren; and a wide circle of extended family, church members, and lifelong friends.

A celebration of James’s life will be held on Saturday, August 9, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Shiloh Baptist Church, Roanoke, with Rev. Donald Hughes officiating. Interment will follow at Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends on Friday, August 8, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at the church.

Though James is no longer with us in body, his spirit remains deeply embedded in the lives he touched. His legacy is one of love, service, faith, and quiet strength. In our sorrow, we rejoice knowing he now rests in the arms of the Lord he so faithfully served.

“Well done, good and faithful servant… Enter into the joy of your Lord.” — Matthew 25:21