Don Austin Lewis, 96, of South Charleston, WV, passed away on Thursday, December 22, 2022, at Valley Center in South Charleston, after a short illness. His daughter was at his side.
He was born September 9, 1926, on South Hills, Charleston, WV, to Albert and Attie Lewis. He was the youngest of nine.
He was preceded in death by his parents, eight siblings, his wife, Maxine, and daughter-in-law, Nancy.
He is survived by sons, Don K. Lewis (Lisa) of Dunbar, Max R. Lewis (Mary) of St. Albans, and daughter, Joyce Ellen Lewis of South Charleston. He had four grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, friends and close friend, Rev. Frank Goff.
He served his country in the US Army during WWII at the Panama Canal. He was a member of VFW Post 4768, Alum Creek, WV. Following his military service, he trained in automotive paint and body work, and had a long career as a body shop manager at several car dealerships in the Charleston area.
He loved gardening, playing checkers, WVU football and basketball, and NASCAR. He was a Christian.
Memorial service will be 2:00 p.m., Saturday, January 21, 2023, at Curry Funeral Home, Alum Creek, with Pastor Frank Goff officiating. Military graveside honors by the US Army will follow. Friends and family will gather 1 hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Don’s cremains will be buried at Adkins Cemetery, Charleston at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, please make contributions to Alum Creek VFW Post 4768, 4443 Brounland Road, South Charleston, WV 25309.
Storytelling was an art for Don Lewis. Through the years he enriched my life by sharing many tales of his family, the early years of our Smith Road neighborhood, and his deep love of South Hills. Don was a kind and generous man to me, frequently providing historic photos and facts of our neighborhood community. I remain grateful for his friendship and many gifts, and extend my sincere sympathy to his daughter and family, especially his nephew and my friend, Dennis Lewis.
To Don / Max / Ellen : I am so sorry to hear about the passing of your dad. Your family was so special to our family. I can remember growing up and going to your house to go swimming. Don was always the life of the party. He was a good friend and a great man. Thanks for the memories Don. You will be missed by all that knew you. Steve Deahl
Max I am very sorry for the loss of your dad our prayers are with you and Mary
So sorry for your loss. I remember great times spent with your family. My memories of Don and Maxine are precious. Sending love and prayers at this difficult time.