Charlie Edison Lewis

Mr. Lewis died April 5, 2011, in Temple. He was born Sept. 2, 1935, in Newton County, the fourth child to the family of Mr. James C. Lewis and Mrs. Hannah Jerusha Galloway Lewis.

He grew up and attended public schools in the Burkeville community. From an early age, he was an active member of the Mount Hope Baptist Church. He was known for helping maintain the church grounds and building.

Upon graduation from Wiergate High School, he joined the U.S. Army. He served his country for 22 years and achieved the rank of sergeant first class.

During his military career, Mr. Lewis received the Good Conduct Medal (w/Silver, 2 Loops), National Defense Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon (Numeral 2), Vietnam Service Medal (with 4 Bronze Service Stars), Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry (with Palm/2nd Award) and Republic of Vietnam Civil Actions Honor medal, and was honorably discharged.

Mr. Lewis retired from the military on March 31, 1984, and settled in Killeen. He met many friends and was active in his church. He has served in the Church of the New Commandment as an elder, an usher and greeter and was serving as the officiant at the time of his death.

Survivors include his three sisters, Mrs. John Ella Carroll, Mrs. Azzie Lee Miles (Lee Arthur Sr.), and Ms. Pennie Ella Butler, all of Houston; a host of loving nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and other relatives and friends.

Visitation is from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday at Crawford-Bowers Funeral Home in Killeen, which is in charge of arrangements. Share memories online at www.crawfordbowersfuneralhome.com.