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Deacon Emeritus Charles Lewis, Jr.
1933 - 2025
BORN
1933
DIED
2025
FUNERAL HOME
Deacon Emeritus Charles Lewis, Jr. Obituary
Charles Lewis, Jr. transitioned peacefully to be with the Lord on Saturday, May 3, 2025, at his home in Petersburg, Virginia. Affectionately known as “Pop-Pop” by his close family and friends, he was born on April 9, 1933, to the late Charles and Lizzie B. Lewis, in Charles City County, Virginia.
At an early age, Charles accepted Christ and was baptized at New Vine Baptist Church in Charles City. He began his early education in the Charles City Public School System, graduating from Ruthville High School in 1952. Upon graduation, he attended Virginia State College (now University). While in college, he met the love of his life, Violet Harmon. He also became a member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Incorporated.
After college, Charles served in the United States Army and was honorably discharged. He worked at Allied Chemical (now Honeywell) until his retirement in 1990. When he moved to Petersburg, he joined First Baptist Church. He was a member of the Male Usher Board, The George E. Vaughn Bible Class, and the James H. Thweatt Memorial Club. In 1993, Charles was ordained as a Deacon. In 2019, after serving for over 26 years, he was honored to become Deacon Emeritus.
Charles was a passionate gardener. He enjoyed being outside working in his flower and vegetable gardens. Other hobbies included cooking, traveling, and photography. He especially loved capturing pictures of his grandchildren, who were a source of much pride and joy.
Charles was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Melvin and George Lewis. Left to cherish his memory are his devoted and loving wife of over 66 years, Violet H. Lewis; daughter, Jovanni Washington (Jeffrey); granddaughter, Kimberly Washington; grandson, Stephen Washington; brother, William H. Lewis; along with a host of loving relatives, as well as devoted friends, including his next-door neighbors, Reverend Clyde and Alice Johnson.
The family extends special thanks to his devoted caregivers, Yolanda Wright and Andre Allen, for all the love, care and compassion shown to Charles.
Services will be held 11:00 A.M., Friday, May 16, 2025, at First Baptist Church, 236 Harrison Street, Petersburg, VA, the Rev. Dr. Jeremiah Tillman, Pastor, officiating, and Rev. Dr. Clyde Johnson, Sr., eulogist. The interment to follow at Southlawn Memorial Park.
J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911, www.jmwilkersonsince1874.com. Watch the funeral services live online on our J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc. Facebook page.
Memories and Condolences
for Deacon Emeritus Charles Lewis, Jr.
Angela M. Harris
May 16, 2025
My deepest sympathy goes out to Mrs. Lewis and Jovanni. I pray for your comfort during this difficult time. Peace & Blessings to you both.
Iris Brown
May 16, 2025
To the Lewis Family and
Members of First Baptist
Church, Harrison Street,
We will remember Deacon
and Mrs. Lewis as our
model and devoted couple
there. May God be with
you all.
Willis and Iris S. Brown
CHARLENE CARTER
May 16, 2025
In loving memory of a wonderful person. and neighbor.We will love you and miss you always. My deepest condolences and prayers to the Lewis family.
Andre Thompson
May 15, 2025
Sending my deepest prayers and condolences to the Lewis family. Mr. Lewis will forever be remembered as extended family to me. I'm so glad I got to see you my last visit home. Your smile, Your talks with me will forever be remembered. Thank you sir, rest well my friend.
Chairwoman BJ Brooks
May 15, 2025
On behalf of the Metropolitan Baptist Church Diaconate Ministry, I extend our heartfelt condolences as you celebrate the life and legacy of your loved one, Deacon Emeritus Charles Lewis Jr. May God’s comforting presence surround you now and in the days ahead. Hold your memories close—they will bring warmth to your heart and smiles when you least expect them.
Please know that your Diaconate Family stands ready to support you in any way you need. We are here for you, with love, prayer, and service.
Pamela Ghee
May 15, 2025
I have many fond memories of Uncle Charles. I will always cherish the many family visits and gatherings. Rest in peace Uncle Charles. You will be missed.
Joie howell
May 14, 2025
Mr Lewis was family to me. He always had a nice smile and something pleasant to say. God bless Mrs. Lewis, Jovanni and entire Lewis& Washington families.
Deacon Mary Miles
May 14, 2025
May God give each of you the strength that you need doing this time of sorrow Remember that Earth has no sorrow that Heaven can heal
Julian P Jones
May 13, 2025
Deacon Lewis was my cousin. For many years in my early life, I thought my mother was Charles's aunt. Not so, as I learned that they were actually first cousins. Regardless, what I really want to share is that my mother often reminded me and my three brothers that she wanted her boys to grow up "like the the Lewis boys" (Charles, Melvin, George, and William (Zeke). They all were ALWAYS, ALWAYS so kind, respectful and honorable to all whom they came into contact with. It was always a special event for us when Charles & Violet paid our home a visit. I distinctly remember when Charles/Violet visited our home with their new born (Jovanni for the first time). That was a special occasion in our house and gave my mother yet another opportunity tell her boys that we should strive to live as upright men (Psalm 1). Deacon Charles Lewis did exactly that! AN UPRIGHT MAN! I thank God that my mother had the wisdom to teach me and my brothers to look at Charles as a role model.
Deacon JP and Deaconess Julie Jones
Alexandria, Virginia
Jackie Washington
May 10, 2025
My heart goes out to my dear sister-in-law, Jovanni, Mrs. Violet Lewis, and the Lewis and Washington families during this difficult time.
Mr. Charles Lewis Jr. was the epitome of grace, faithfulness, kindness, and a wonderful servant.
I will always treasure memories of his gentle smile during my visits with him and Mrs. Lewis and our many discussions, especially the gardening tips.
Now take your rest in heaven, Mr. Lewis ('Pop Pop!'). With love, Jackie
Ray Coleman
May 5, 2025
Deacon Charles you will truly be missed. I have never met a nicer person. Rest in peace my friend.
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J M Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc. - Petersburg102 South Ave, Petersburg, VA 23803-4220