Charlie Richard Lewis

Charlie Richard Lewis, known to many as Richard and affectionately called “Dickie” by those closest to him, passed away at the age of 82 on the very piece of land in Angelina County, Texas, that he had called home since childhood.

Born to Richard E. Lewis and Frances M. Tucker Lewis, Richard spent nearly his entire life in the community he loved. Deeply rooted in family, faith, friendship, and hard work, he lived a life defined not by titles or recognition, but by the people he loved and the countless ways he cared for them.

Richard proudly served his country in the United States Army as a diesel mechanic during the Vietnam War. He was a dedicated Mason, attaining the rank of 32nd Degree Mason and maintaining membership in the Scottish Rite and Blue Lodge, organizations he held in high regard throughout his life.

A truck driver by trade, Richard spent many years on the road before retiring in 2018. Yet those who knew him best understood that he was much more than a truck driver. He was a mechanic, electrician, builder, craftsman, and lifelong tinkerer. He loved working in his shop, repairing cars and trucks, building and fixing whatever needed attention, and spending time on his tractor. If something was broken, he believed it could be repaired, and more often than not, he was the person who knew how to do it.

Richard was a genuine man who never pretended to be anything other than himself. Though he could be stern when the situation called for it, he was known for his open door, willing hands, and listening ear. If someone needed help and he was able to provide it, he would do his best without hesitation. He was the kind of man people could depend on.

He found happiness in the simple things: fishing, spending time outdoors, listening to old country and gospel music, visiting with friends, and spending long hours in the shop he loved. Above all else, however, Richard’s greatest joy was his family.

He shared 41 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Della Lewis. Together they built a life centered around family, and nothing brought Richard more pride than his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Known lovingly as “Pawpaw,” he adored his grandbabies and treasured every opportunity to spend time with them. His love extended beyond blood relation, and many children who entered his life came to know him simply as Pawpaw, a title he wore with pride.

Richard is survived by his wife, Della Lewis; daughters Margaret Lewis, Marla Lewis, and Mary Stidham; son Jeremy Lewis and wife Sarah Lewis; grandchildren Rand Bishop, Sara Williams, AnnMarie Hallan, Allen Lewis, Madelin Lewis, Katlyn Staranowicz, James Lewis, Alexus Renfro, Alyk Perkins, Ayden Lewis, Cheslee Stidham, Easton Stidham, and Eli Stidham; great-grandchildren Haisley Loncar and Boden Loncar, with two more precious great-grandchildren expected in the coming months.

He is also survived by his sister Paula Ondruch and husband Walter; brother Jackie Lewis and wife Sheila; along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, dear friends, and countless others whom he loved as family.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sisters Syble Smith and Melba Watson; and his son, Joshua Allred.

Richard’s legacy lives on in the lessons he taught, the things he built, the people he helped, and the family he loved so fiercely. His hands repaired many things throughout his life, but his greatest work was the love, guidance, and steady presence he gave to those fortunate enough to call him husband, father, Pawpaw, brother, uncle, and friend.

He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.