Ray "Sonny" Lewis, Jr.

            Mr.  Ray Lewis, Jr., 74, of Youngstown, departed this life Sunday, February 11, 2024 in Mercy Health St. Elizabeth Boardman Hospital.

            Mr. Lewis, affectionately known as “Sonny”, was born May 15, 1949 in Lynchburg, Virginia, a son of Ray Sr. and Joyce H. Beverley Lewis.  He was a 1967 graduate of East High School, attended Norfolk State University and received his BA degree in Psychology and Economics from Youngstown State University.  He was a U. S. Army veteran.

            Ray had been employed as a coordinator in the paint shop at Lordstown General Motors for 38 years, retiring in 2014.  He was a member of UAW Local 1112; a 33rd degree Mason with Covenant Lodge #59; had been inducted in the East High Hall of Fame; mentored many youth; and was a 1st degree Black Belt with Karate International.  He enjoyed fishing, music, dancing, collecting coins, traveling, shopping and coaching his children and grandchildren.  He was an advid Cleveland Browns and Lakers fan.

            He leaves to cherish his life and legacy, his mother, Joyce Lewis of Youngstown; his beloved wife, the former Evelyn L. Howard, whom he married April 22, 1972; two children, Tumpa M. Lewis and Lawalyn L. Lewis Sr. both of Youngstown; six grandchildren; his siblings, Beverly L. Waller, Kaylor White, and Beatrice G. Lewis all of Youngstown, Charles (Sheryl) Lewis of Richmond, VA, and Debbie Lewis of Cleveland; and a host of nieces, nephews, other family and friends.

            He was preceded in death by his father, Ray Lewis, Sr.

            Visitation will be Saturday, February 17, 2024 from 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. at the New Bethel Baptist Church, 1507 Hillman Street, Youngstown.  A Celebration of Life service will follow at 10:00 a.m.  Guests are asked to wear masks.

            Ministry of comfort, love and dignity entrusted to the L. E. Black, Phillips and Holden Funeral Home.

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