Obituary

Levi Lewis, Sr.

April 12, 1943 - February 16, 2025

Mr. Levi Lewis, Sr., age 81, entered into eternal rest on February 16, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, service, and dedication to his family and community. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and cherished member of the Varnado community.

Born to the late Ed and Laura Lewis, Levi was the second of seven children. He grew up alongside his siblings: Edgar (the late Anna), Rosie (Airl), William (Tresslar), Wallace (Evelyn), and two that preceded him in death, Lorna (the late Wesley) and Lola. From an early age, the values of faith, hard work, and community were instilled in him, shaping him into a man dedicated to his faith, his family, and a life of service to others.

Mr. Lewis was a proud 1962 graduate of Wesley Ray High School. He furthered his education by earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial Arts Education and a Master’s + 30 Graduate Hours in Administration from Southern University in Baton Rouge, LA. Beyond academics, he was a masterful craftsman with expertise in electrical work, construction, and automotive repair. His passion for learning was more than a personal pursuit; it was a lifelong mission to empower others and equip them with the knowledge and skills to succeed.

Levi’s most cherished role was that of a family man. He shared a life filled with love and devotion with his beloved wife of 61 years, Katherine Ruth Nichols Lewis. They built a strong, faithful family together, raising three children: Rosalyn, Loleta, and the late Levi Jr. His family grew even more with the addition of two beloved sons-in-law, Dwayne and Byron, whom he cherished as his own. He was a proud and devoted grandfather to Katrina (Michael), Brandon, Kayla (Derrick), Karin, Aubrianna, Nicholas, and Kelsey. He adored his great-grandchildren: Kyler, Amaya, Zoey, and Cade. Two of his treasured grandchildren, Stephanie and Lauryn, preceded him in death. His nephew, Matthew Washington, Jr., was like a son to him, and their bond was one of mutual love and respect.

As his family circle grew through his marriage to Katherine, he was blessed to gain additional loved ones, including his late mother and father in law (Ella and Creer Nichols) brothers and sisters-in-law: Richard (the late Hattie), Ollie, Willie (Beverly), Larry (Charlene), Lionel (Rose), Benny, Stanley (the late Virginia), and two that preceded him in death Llewellyn (the late Lucille) and Faye (the late Doc).

Beyond his immediate family, Levi held dear a close-knit circle of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends, cherishing their presence in his life. His home was always a place of warmth, where laughter, wisdom, and love were shared freely.  

Dedicating his professional career to education and workforce development, he began his journey as an instructor and assistant director in the Louisiana Technical and Community College System. He became the director of the Sidney N. Collier Campus in New Orleans, LA. For 36 years, his leadership and vision transformed the lives of countless students, offering them opportunities for success and advancement. His colleagues and students weren't just part of an institution; they were part of his extended family, especially Suzette Smith, who became like a daughter to him and his wife. His impact lives on through those he touched throughout his career.

Levi was a man of deep faith and devotion. He was an active member of Mary’s Chapel United Methodist Church, where he served in numerous leadership roles, including lay leader, lay speaker, assistant Sunday school teacher, chairperson of the building committee, and chair of the Administrative Council. His dedication extended to the larger UMC Conference, where he served as district lay leader and board member of both the District Ordained Ministry and the United Methodist Conference. He was also the Chairperson of the Pastor-Parish Relations Committee.

Mr. Lewis was deeply committed to his community and worked tirelessly to improve the lives of those around him. He was elected as a Washington Parish Councilman for District 4 and played a vital role in numerous civic organizations, including the Washington Parish Men's Club, the board of directors for Varnado Water Works, Washington Parish Planning Commission, and the Bogalusa Blues and Heritage Festival. As treasurer for the Concerned Citizens of Angie, he championed initiatives that uplifted those in need. His passion for affordable housing led him to work closely with Bogalusa Rebirth. He was also an active member of the NAACP, dedicated to advancing civil rights and social justice. Additionally, his leadership and vision were instrumental in establishing the Varnado and Angie Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade, a lasting tribute to his belief in justice, unity, and service to others.

His life was a testament to the strength of faith, the value of education, and the importance of selfless service. His love and influence extended beyond blood relations, as he built lifelong bonds with those he mentored, worked alongside, and worshipped with, creating an extended family bound by love, respect, and shared experiences. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, church community, and all who were fortunate enough to know him.  

His services will be held at Mary's Chapel United Methodist Church in Varnado on Saturday, February 22, at noon, with a public viewing from 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM. 

The family requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Levi Lewis, Sr. Memorial Scholarship at Mary's Chapel United Methodist Church in his honor. 

Crain & Sons Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.