Robert Henry Lewis

Robert Henry Lewis was born on June 29, 1936, in Philadelphia PA to Robert Ernest Lewis and Catherine Lucille Philips. He was the oldest of five children. Robert relocated to Keswick, Virginia with his father at an early age and received his education in the Albemarle County School System. Upon leaving School, Robert joined the U S Navy. During his four-year tour, he traveled and experienced the thrill of amateur boxing. Robert returned to Virginia after his discharge and began working at The Singer Sewing Machine store in Charlottesville.

In 1960 Robert moved to Washington DC and began employment with Sears and Roebuck. He remained with Sears until his retirement in 1998. In 1959, Robert began studying the Bible with members of the Mount Pleasant Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses. He progressed rapidly with the help of Bros. Dennis Smith and Timothy Murdock and was Baptized in 1960.

Robert’s thirst for Bible knowledge caused him to progress spiritually and he was appointed as a Servant in the congregation. He loved the ministry and had the privilege of aiding persons to symbolizing their dedication to Jehovah by baptism.

In May 1966, Robert was introduced to Barbara Bright. Robert and Barbara were married on September 17, 1966, in the North Congregation Kingdom Hall, the same one in which Robert was baptized in 1960. To this union were born two children: Sean and Kimberly Lewis.

The Lewis home was a meeting place for Congregation Bible studies and field ministry arrangements for over 30 years. The Friday night Watchtower Prep continues in the home. Brother Lewis made himself available day and night and his family supported him (except his spoiled little girl, who would complain about people calling her dad at all hours).

Upon his retirement from Sears in 1998, Robert began his new career as a full-time minister or Pioneer. His responsibilities as an Elder in the congregation continued to grow. Robert aided many persons to make their dedication to Jehovah or repair and strengthen their relationship with him. Brother Lewis was also on the Hospital Visitation Committee for Howard University Hospital and Medstar Washington Hospital Center for 10 years. Roberts’ sense of humor along with his strict adherence to Bible principles endeared him to many through the years. Retirement also introduced Robert to a new love. Golf. He loved taking his grandsons to the driving range. He also played in a couple of charity events with his father-in-law and others. Using “Bib Bertha brought him a great deal of joy.

Brother Lewis will greatly missed by Barbara, his wife of fifty-five and a half years, his children; Robert Jr.; Sean Lewis (Lorinda) and Kimberly Lewis and his nephew, Jeffrey Bright.

He also leaves to remember him:

12 grandchildren: Sean Antonio, Tanisha, Bryan; Giovanni (Carissa); Gerel; Rachel; Alana; Kendrick; Kameron; Christian; Kaiden and Brandon, who predeceased him.

11 Great Grands: Kalel; Everly; Xena; Ni-Shana; DaMarcus; J’Nisha; NaKhia; KeShawna; Jazz; Jada; Sean Antonio Jr.

3 Great Great Grands: Avion; Rose’Amei; Nilani

4 Siblings: Beatrice Hawkins (Clarence); Leona Williams; Diana Hope & Albert Lewis

Along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, associates, neighbors and spiritual brothers and sisters.

APPRECIATION

The Lewis family wish to express their great appreciation and thank everyone for the prayers, phone calls, cards and messages received during our period of great grief. The love, support and encouragement received has been limitless. May Jehovah continue to bless the spirit you have shown.