Jennie A Lewis

Born on February 1, 1957, in Portsmouth, Ohio, Jennie was the eldest of five children of Lloyd and Geraldine (née Lewis) Berry. She was raised at Allen Chapel AME Church, where she sang in the youth choir. A 1975 graduate of Portsmouth High School, Jennie formed lifelong friendships that endured across decades. She moved to Columbus to attend The Ohio State University, where she met and married Byron Lee Lewis. The couple had three beautiful children and were married for 20 years.

Known early on for her academic excellence and leadership, and committed to personal and professional growth, Jennie earned her associate degree in paralegal studies from Columbus State Community College in 1997 while raising her family. She worked as a paralegal with several companies before finding her true calling at OCSEA, where she built a fulfilling 23-year career advocating for union members. Jennie was admired for her calm presence, strong work ethic, and generous spirit.

A devout member of St. Paul AME Church, Jennie cherished time with family and friends. She found joy in sewing, often gifting her handmade creations, and had recently retired to spend more time with her grandson, to cook, and to enjoy her favorite pastime—watching the Buckeyes! Jennie’s passing leaves a profound void. She will be remembered for her warmth, resilience, and unwavering kindness. Her quiet strength and dedication touched many lives.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Lloyd and Geraldine Berry; her sister, Marlene Berry; and her brother, Lloyd Berry II. She is survived by her children—Marlene Lewis, Langston Pierce II, and Geoffrey Lewis; her sisters, Maureen (Tony) Cadogan and Sue Berry; and her grandson, Grayson Lewis.

In honor of Jennie's memory, the family kindly asks those attending the service to wear purple.

A memorial service to honor Jennie’s life will be held on Friday, June 27, 2025, at Schoedinger–North, 5554 Karl Rd., Columbus, Ohio 43229, from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., with the service beginning at 3:30 p.m.

The repast will follow from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the OCSEA Union Hall, located at 390 Worthington Rd., Westerville, OH 43082.