James Andre Lewis, Sr.

James Lewis, Sr., a man who lived with passion, purpose, and an unshakable love for life, passed away peacefully at his Washington, D.C., home on December 16, 2024, at the age of 69. Born on March 5, 1955, at Langley Air Force Base in Hampton, Virginia, James was the cherished son of Victoria and Willie Lewis Jr., and the third of eight children in a close-knit military family.

From an early age, James embraced the adventure of life, traveling extensively across the United States and abroad as his family followed their father’s Air Force career. In 1963, the Lewis family settled in Washington, D.C., where James completed his education, graduating from the District of Columbia Public School System in 1973. Inspired by his father’s legacy, James joined the U.S. Air Force after high school, beginning a journey of service and lifelong learning.

James wore many hats throughout his dynamic career, holding roles with the U.S. Department of Treasury, World Nation Special Security Agency, the University of Maryland, and the Tax Corporation. Even in retirement, his sharp mind and love for numbers kept him busy as he continued to prepare and file income taxes for family and friends.

A true renaissance man, James found joy in a variety of passions. He was a devoted fan of old-school R&B, often filling rooms with soulful melodies that mirrored his vibrant personality. An avid reader and a master of card games like Spades, Poker, and Bid Whist, James had a knack for strategic moves and playful smack talk that brought joy and laughter to every table he graced.

James’s enthusiasm for sports was unmatched. He was a lifelong supporter of the Washington Commanders and a fervent follower of both pro and college basketball. Beyond his love for the game, James cherished family gatherings—whether during holidays or monthly get-togethers—and treasured every moment spent with his grandchildren, who were the light of his life.

James’s legacy is one of love, resilience, and authenticity. Those who knew James knew he was a man who embraced life unapologetically, living every moment on his own terms. He wasn’t one to follow the crowd or conform to expectations; James marched to the beat of his own drum, carving out a path that was uniquely his. Whether it was the way he approached challenges with fearless expectation or how he brought his unmistakable charisma to every room, James embodied the idea that life is meant to be lived.

James leaves to cherish fond memories, his son, James "Scoey" Lewis, Jr.; his daughter, Kia Akers; his grandchildren, Jonathan Littlejohn, Jailen Evans, Alashiea Lewis, Deanna Bartholomew, Shawn Lewis, and Amber McCleary; his great granddaughter Meillani Elaine Evans; two brothers: Willie Lewis III and Christopher Lewis six sisters: Jennifer Lewis-Bowser, Barbara Lewis, Janis Lewis, Patricia Lewis, Deborah Harris (Malloy), Sherita Matthews and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

A viewing for James will be held Friday, December 27, 2024 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Greater Mt. Nebo African Methodist Episcopal Church, 1001 Old Mitchellville Rd, Bowie, MD 20716, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 AM. Interment is Private.