Gordon Ray Lewis, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and uncle began his new life in Heaven on November 16, 2018. Gordon lived his life with strength, humor, courage, and perseverance. Family and friends alike were drawn to his wise counsel and his quiet but quick wit.
Gordon was born on July 22, 1949 in Brenham, TX to Rufus and Lillian Lewis of Somerville, TX. It was during his formative years in Somerville that Gordon learned the value of family, friends, and a strong work ethic, and he made many friendships there that lasted his lifetime. After graduating from Somerville High School in 1967, he enrolled at Texas A&M where he studied accounting. Upon his 1971 graduation from Texas A&M, he earned his CPA and began working for Haskins & Sells accounting firm in Houston. 1971 was also the year he married Carol Stout, and she survives him today.
In 1973 Gordon began the career in banking that would span his lifetime. That career began at First National Bank, Corsicana, TX (1973-1979) and then continued to First National Bank, Greenville, TX where he served as President (1979-1986). His next move was to First United Bank, Meridian, MS as President and CEO (1986-1989). It was from Mississippi that Gordon moved his family to Nacogdoches where he served as President and CEO of Fredonia State Bank (1989-2007). Returning to Mississippi in 2007, he served as Vice-Chairman of BancorpSouth, Tupelo until his retirement in 2014. Upon that retirement, he and Carol returned to Nacogdoches to make it their home.
Demonstrating an attitude of obedience to the command to present oneself to God as a worker who need not be ashamed, Gordon committed both time and energy along with his knowledge and expertise to numerous community boards in Corsicana, Greenville, Meridian, and Nacogdoches. Locally, he served NEDCO, Nacogdoches County Chamber of Commerce, SFA Foundation Board, and BancorpSouth Advisory Board. As a faithful member of First Baptist Church Nacogdoches, he served various committees there. He was a tireless and valued member to each group he served.
Gordon loved his alma mater Texas A&M as well as SFASU, and he was a great supporter of both universities. In times of relaxation and entertainment, he enjoyed many interests: he was a sports fan, an avid reader, had a great appreciation for music, and thoroughly enjoyed being grandfather to the dear children who always put the twinkle in his eyes.
Predeceasing him are his parents and his brothers Kenneth W. Lewis and Rufus Lewis, Jr. Surviving him are his wife Carol, daughter Jill Lewis Varnell (Jeremy) of Lewisville, TX, sons Hugh Lewis (Heather) of Austin, TX and Clay Lewis (Stephanie) of Rowlett, TX, grandchildren Braden Peeler; Kyle, Luke, and Adelaide Varnell; and Holland Lewis, as well as sister-in-law Joyce Lewis, sister-in-law Debbie Slott and husband Jack, nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, and cousins.
The family wishes to thank the many doctors who attended Gordon, Life Care Hospice Services, and Rhonda Henry and team for loving, compassionate care.
Though Gordon’s last few years were marked with pain from an injury and his last months with the devastating effects of cancer and its treatment, he never complained. His faith was in his God and he lived that faith daily, often sharing encouragement with others who needed it. He was a loving, gracious, selfless husband, father, grandfather, and friend. His influence will forever be a part of those who knew and loved him.
At 1:00 PM on Tuesday, November 20 a Celebration of Life service will be held in the sanctuary of First Baptist Church, Nacogdoches. Visitation and a reception at the Fredonia Hotel will follow the service.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the First Baptist Church Renovation Fund.
If you desire to send flowers, all floral tributes will be accepted at the funeral home.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Cason Monk-Metcalf Funeral Directors.
