George William Lewis

George Lewis, a distinguished geophysicist, accomplished photographer, devoted husband and father, and lifelong student of the world died in Austin, Texas on September 28, 2026. He was born in Fresno, California on October 27, 1930, the only child of Art and Louise Lewis, both Canadian citizens. He was raised in Fresno graduating from Fresno High School and Fresno State University with a B.A. in Geology and Physics.

George’s professional career began in California with United Geophysical which took him to Texas, Louisiana and Oklahoma where he joined Phillips Petroleum Company. With Phillips he soon returned to California and worked in Colorado and Canada before moving back to Phillips head offices in Oklahoma. His career included a posting in Singapore and travel took him around the world from the arctic to the tip of South America He directed Exploration/Drilling organizations operating in Asia, Africa, Europe, Latin America, Canada and Australia retiring as Managing Director, International Division in 1988.

George lived with a sense of wonder and delight in the world. Growing up near Yosemite National Park created a life-long love of nature. He continued to travel extensively in retirement capturing the people, cultures, landscapes and patterns he encountered with his camera. More than a record of the place, they reflect his ability to notice and appreciate the character and beauty of the world around him. He was also interested and knowledgeable about music, especially jazz and classical and had a lifelong appreciation for the visual arts, history and literature. He was funny, too, with a wonderfully quick wit and an unmistakable twinkle in his eye.

He married Mary Ann Larson with whom he had four daughters. He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Jo Anne Meade Lewis, his children: Cathleen Lewis Smith (David), Carole Lewis Dutcheshen (Bill), Susan Lewis and Julie Lewis Paul. Step-children: Jody Myers (Anne), Dru Myers Brown and grandchildren: David Dutcheshen (Raelynn), Stephen Dutcheshen, Jillian Louise Smith, Wyatt Lewis Paul, Zoe Myers, Max Myers, Blair Brown (Mason), William Brown, Audrey Brown Pilkington (Collin) and two great-grands: Abbey and Taylor Dutcheschen and many friends.

As George requested, if you wish to remember him, give yourself a productive enjoyable day. Take a walk, visit with a friend or an interesting stranger, listen to some good music, view some fine art, eat some good food and make a contribution to educational opportunities for the next generation.

A Celebration of George’s life will be held on November 7, 2026, at his residence Querencia, 2500 Barton Creek Blvd, Austin, TX 78735.