Inez Lewis

The world was graced with the birth of Inez Monica Lewis on the 16th day of March 1937, in Discovery Bay, St. Ann, Jamaica.  As the fourth child and eldest daughter of six children born to Ruth and Lindsay Todd, she played the role of a second mom to her siblings, which was always reflected in her demeanor and aura.   Her altruism was extraordinary; she utilized all her time assisting those around her by any means necessary. Her loyalty was second to none, never allowing squabbles to disrupt her steadfastness towards family and friends.  Her adoration and devotion to her loved ones was exemplified in her natural culinary skills, as food was her one of her love languages. Every savory, seasoned sensation was met with warmheartedness and glee by those who were privileged to experience her delectable delights.  Day in and day out, she was a beacon of love.

Inez grew up revering her Mama Ruth and Papa Lindsay, who were both stern but loving.  Inez would always reflect on the sayings her Mama lived by such as “Early To Bed, Early To Rise” and “Who don’t Hear Will Feel.”  These words had a huge impact on Inez, as her punctuality and work ethic were incomparable, always putting her best foot forth in anything she chose to do.  Also, her respect for others was insurmountable, as being respectful was paramount. She would always refer to her Papa as a man of respect, confidence and meekness, who had her heart.  The endearment and adoration for her Papa shone through as she would reflect on his kindness and in turn, show this kindness to those closest to her.

The benevolence Inez cultivated during her childhood prepared her for the greatest role of all: Matriarchy.  Inez’s heart was transferred into physical form the moment her daughter Marcia James entered the world in 1961.  The journey she embarked during motherhood displayed the intensification of her selflessness and strength.  The tenaciousness she possessed was unequivocal and admirable, never giving into hardships of any kind.  Where there was a will, there was a way. Inez ensured Marcia was provided for in all aspects:  love, sustenance, and stability.  

As time elapsed, Inez witnessed her family expanding.  Her daughter, Marcia and son in-law, Colin James conceived 3 children: Stacyanne James, Colin James Jr, and Matthew James. Inez never left her (grand)children’s side, spoiling them with her love, undivided attention, and food. Inez would cook every single day to ensure the children were nourished when coming home from school.  It was her way of expressing the endless love she had for them.  Her weekly routine was to have detailed conversations with her babies about academic and behavioral performance in and out of the school setting. She would always tell her babies “If you behave yuhself, yuh gwine get patty, coco bread, soda, and dessert every Friday.”  The positive reinforcement Inez provided was instrumental and a great source of encouragement for her grandchildren to be their very best in all settings. 

The same can be said she became a great-grandmother.  Her loving spirit continued to extend, and she was more jovial and delicate than ever.  It was as if as she increasingly blossomed as time went on.  The kids always laughed and played with her helped, which helped her to remain youthful and joyous.  In return, she spoiled them tremendously, with childhood memories, jokes, food and snacks, if they behaved themselves, of course.

She personified “Teeth and Tongue Will Meet” by “Killing with Kindness;” amid conflict, Inez annihilated animosity with her principles of impartiality and unification, her weapons of choice being tenderness in one hand and reason in the other. Despite the inadequacies of many, she believed in demonstrating love to all and upheld this rare virtue throughout her days.  Her authentic sublimity garnered attention, leaving many awestruck and perplexed as to how a woman of such a small stature could be such a grand beacon for others.  

She left a mark like that of the wind; calm—though invisible and unintimidating to the eye, powerful—to feel in every fiber of one’s body, and gentle—to soothe all within its radius. Her effervescence, radiance, and beauty of 87 years will live on in the hearts and minds of her beloved family and friends, and her legacy will continue to endure through her descendants: her daughter: Marcia James, son-in-law: Colin James, grandchildren: Stacyanne Colin Jr. & Matthew, great grandchildren: Lihly, Paul, Nahvi, Kobe & Aaliyah, nieces, nephews, in-laws, other family members & friends.