Lelia Catherine Lewis, 89, a longtime resident of Fort Smith passed away on August 29, 2021 at her home, surrounded by her husband and friends. She had been ill for a lengthy period but her passing at this time was unexpected.
Catherine was a loving companion to J.R. Lewis Jr, also known as Jessie, Judge, and James for 72 years. She was a devoted and loving mother to Diane Lewis and Ronnie Lewis.
Survived by her husband and children as well as daughter-in-law Sherri Vervack, cousin Debbie Harris, nephew Kelly Springer, and uncle Coleman Byrd.
Catherine was born on July 1, 1932 in Magazine, AR to Herman and Bonnie Springer. She was a member of Goddard United Methodist Church for 76 years.
During her life she was a member of Beta Sigma Phi friendship sorority and Liberty Chapter of the Eastern Star.
Preceded in death by her parents and brother Lamoine, she will be greatly missed.
Pallbearers will be Robert Neufield, Charles Wingfield, David Edwards, John Foster, Roger Ross and Rick Guinn. Honorary pallbearers will be Steve Stiles and Wendell Weaver.
In lieu of flowers, send donations to Goddard United Methodist Church, 1922 Dodson Avenue, Fort Smith, AR 72901 or visit www.goddardumc.org, or the Fort Smith Trolley Museum, 100 South 4th Street, Fort Smith, AR 72901 or visit www.fstm.org
