Wilfred Lewis

Wilfred was preceded in death by his loving parents, Deacon Clarence E. Lewis, Sr., and Nellie (White) Lewis, and by his siblings Joyce (1986), Robert (2007), and Glenda (2015) — all of whom went before him in faith.

Wilfred’s legacy of love lives on through his devoted wife, Michelle (Gadson) Lewis. His beloved stepchildren also survive him — Ricky (Latonya) of Virginia; Marcus (Erika) of South Carolina; Alexander of Virginia; and Antia Smith of Brandon, FL (Daughter in love) — all of whom he cherished as his own and who knew him as a steady, fatherly presence.

“Redbone’s” siblings will deeply miss him: Katie Mae Wiggins of Smithfield, VA; Minnie Marie Herring (Dennis, Sr.) of Elizabeth City, NC; Clarence Lewis, Jr. (Lutricia) of Raleigh, NC; Betty Jean Banks of Elizabeth City, NC; Nellie Norman (Jonathan) of Knightdale, NC; David Lewis (Josephine) of Powell’s Point, NC;Deborah Brite (Eliot) of Elizabeth City, NC; Tremaine Ghee of Chesapeake, VA; Elaine Gadson of Orangeburg, SC (Sister in love); and Pete Brown of Elizabeth City, NC (Brother in love).

He also leaves behind six beloved grandchildren, who brought him immeasurable joy, along with 34 nieces and nephews, a host of cousins, and many dear friends who will forever cherish his strength, generosity, and laughter.   He was previously married, and from that union, he is survived by his former wife, stepson, and extended family.

Early in his journey, Wilfred chose to wear the uniform of the United States Air Force, answering the call to serve his country. Though his time in the military was brief, it shaped his character — teaching him discipline, teamwork, and dedication to duty.

After his military service, he devoted decades to protecting his community as a correctional officer. Those who worked alongside him remember his steadiness, his sense of fairness, and the quiet respect he showed to both colleagues and those in his care.

Standing faithfully beside him through every season was his beloved wife of 19 years, Michelle Lewis, whose unwavering love, strength, and companionship were among his greatest blessings. Life sometimes unfolds in ways we never expect. Though the years passed without the children he once longed for, through Michelle and her family, new joy entered his life in the form of sons, daughters, and grandchildren. His life was full of fruitfulness—not only in his works, but in the love and guidance shared with those who call him Father, and PeePaw. As a devoted husband, father, friend, and a man whose life was defined by service, Wilfred exemplified faith, love, and quiet strength. He carried God’s light, nurturing and guiding others with the wisdom and knowledge entrusted to him as a lamp to illuminate the paths of those who followed. His dedication to his family, his community, and his country will never be forgotten.

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