Serving Greater Cincinnati Since 2017
Coping with Grief
We would like to offer our sincere support to anyone coping with grief. Enter your email below for our complimentary daily grief messages. Messages run for up to one year and you can stop at any time. Your email will not be used for any other purpose.
James Randolph Lewis was born on July 18, 1960, at Bronx Hospital in New York to the late Alice Jones and Benjamin Lewis. On May 7, 2026, he peacefully departed this life in Cincinnati, Ohio.
James will be remembered as a man whose presence brought warmth, humor, and joy to everyone who knew him. Known for his quick wit and infectious smile, he had a special way of making people laugh. He always had a joke ready and a lighthearted way of looking at life that made those around him feel at ease.
James attended Theodore Roosevelt High School and later worked in landscaping, where he demonstrated both responsibility and a willingness to work hard. He took pride in his work and paved his own path through determination, independence, and resilience.
Above all, James was a devoted family man. He shared a special bond with his mother and was affectionately known as “Big Baby.” His love for his family was evident throughout his life. He was especially close to his sister, Valerie, and treasured the relationships he shared with his family.
In his quieter moments, James enjoyed playing chess, watching television, and spending time with loved ones. Whether sharing laughter, spending time with family, or simply enjoying life, James touched the hearts of all who knew him. His memory will live on through the stories, laughter, and cherished moments that remain in the hearts of his family and friends forever.
Family Information
Preceded in death by:
Parents: Benjamin Lewis & Alice Jones
Siblings: Richard Brown (known as “Bookie”), Hilliard Brown (“Brown”), Bobby Brown, Valerie Jones, Sister Joan Davis, Brother Willie “Davis” Lewis, and Twin Sister Rebecca Lewis.
Survived by:
Daughter: Shauntae Lewis
Children: Robert “Bam” Lewis, Michael Cross Jr., Daughters Sakiah Lewis and Lexus Lewis
Son: Mikel Lewis
Grandchildren: Jeremiah Lewis, Josiah Lewis, Orion Lewis, and a loving stepdaughter
Special friend: Judith Sherman Bohannon
“James will be forever remembered for his laughter, love of family, and the joy he brought to those around him.”
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of James Randolph Lewis, please visit our floral store.