Joe Lewis

Joe Lewis was born on January 29, 1939, in Forest Home, Alabama, to Elmore and Mary Bell (Crenshaw) Lewis. Known affectionately as "Papa-Joe," he was blessed to spend one final Christmas surrounded by his children and grandchildren before passing away peacefully at home on December 27, 2024.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Elmore Sr. and Mary Bell Lewis; his beloved wife, Setsuko (Goko) Lewis; and his brothers, Nello and Elmore “Nemus” Lewis Jr. He is lovingly remembered by his three children: Yolanda Lewis (Joel Koury), Brenda Lewis (Niki Kelly), and Jeffrey Lewis; his cherished grandchildren, Kayla and Kenji Lewis-Koury; his sister, Pearlie Mae Jones; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Joe proudly enlisted in the Army at 18, embarking on a distinguished 23-year career that culminated in the esteemed rank of Command Sergeant Major. A proud Vietnam veteran, who served two tours of duty, Joe earned numerous awards, including the Bronze Star, and remained deeply connected to the military community, supporting causes such as Wounded Warriors and Veterans Associations.

Following his Army retirement, Joe embarked on a second career with the U.S. Postal Service, where he served faithfully for 23 years. Outside of his professional achievements, Joe was deeply devoted to his faith and was an active member of Southside Bible Chapel, where he was an Elder. He found joy in fishing, gardening, and working with his hands, always showing kindness to the creatures in his yard—the squirrels and rabbits, in particular, were well cared for.

Joe will be laid to rest alongside his wife at Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Colorado Springs. Funeral services will take place at Memorial Gardens Funeral, Cremation, and Cemetery on January 16, 2025, at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the Dementia Society of America at www.dementiasociety.org or the Wounded Warrior Project at www.woundedwarriorproject.org

Joe’s life was a testament to service, faith, and love for family. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who knew him.