Jerome E. Lewis

Celebrating an Amazing Life

As the earth bloomed between spring and summer, Jerome E. Lewis, affectionately known as Jerry, entered the world June 12, 1948 in Cincinnati, Ohio. From the beginning, his presence brightened his family’s lives—a joy that deepened over the years.  Among the many friends he touched, his warmth, infectious humor, and generosity left lasting impressions.

Jerry lived a life defined not by titles. Instead, connection, joy, and presence guided him. He was a devoted son, husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His love for family anchored everything he did. As the oldest grandson among 26 first cousins, Jerry held a special place in a large extended family—one he filled with laughter, generosity, and an unmistakable warmth. There was something about him—never flashy or showy—he simply had it. With a megawatt smile, an easy wit, hugs for everyone, and an effortless sense of cool, Jerry made people feel seen and welcomed. Whether reigning as the family’s grill master, dominating cornhole games and dominoes, or showing up impeccably dressed, Jerry was always “IT.”

Rooted in faith and service, Jerry carried that same warmth and generosity into every space he occupied—at home, at church, and throughout the community he loved.

Professionally, Jerry worked as a licensed optician, but his impact reached far beyond his career. From a young age, he demonstrated a strong sense of discipline, service, and leadership, earning the rank of Eagle Scout—an achievement that reflected his character and commitment to others.

A man of faith, Jerry carried those same values into adulthood. He was a member of Bethel Baptist Church in his youth and later, with his cherished and loving wife, Debbie, joined Corinthian Baptist Church, where he faithfully served on the Media Team with humility and dedication.

That spirit of service and connection extended into the many communities he loved, including sports. An avid bowler, softball player, umpire, and fishing enthusiast, Jerry distinguished himself most in bowling—the sport closest to his heart—where he rolled multiple perfect 300 games and became a respected leader within the Greater Cincinnati USBC, culminating in his 2019 induction into the Hall of Fame for Meritorious Service.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, John and Pearl Lewis, his daughter, LaTonya Terry, and his son, Jerome E. Lewis, II. He leaves to treasure his memory his cherished and loving wife, Debbie; children, Babette Johnson, Shantell Ryans, and Dante (Temchisa) Turner; uncles, Stephen Blackwell, Sr., and Marvin Blackwell; aunts, Gladys Dodson and Margo Lewis; seven grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; special friends, Michael Connelly, Willie Dean, Ron Jackson, Delco Taylor, and Jerome White; and a host of loved ones-family and friends alike-who were blessed to have been embraced by his life. 

Jerry’s legacy lives on in the love he shared, the laughter he sparked, and the countless lives made brighter simply by knowing him. Every time we think of him, he will be missed.

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