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A celebration of life service for Reverend Aaron "Tommy" Lewis will be held on Friday, November 21, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. at the First Baptist Church of Progress Village, 8722 Progress Boulevard, Tampa, FL 33619 with Pastor Todd Hammond, Senior Teaching Pastor Officiating. Interment will be held on Monday November 24, 2025, at 11:30 a.m. at Sarasota National Cemetery, 9810 State Road 72 Sarasota, FL 34241. The Reverend Aaron “Tommy” Lewis was born on October 18, 1950, in St. Louis, Missouri, to the late Sam and Alma L. Lewis, Jr., the third of seven children, Aaron was raised in a large, close-knit family where love, laughter, and strong values shaped his life. He lived with a full heart and embraced each day with purpose and joy. He embarked on his heavenly journey on November 5, 2025, at HCA Florida Southshore Hospital.Aaron completed his early education at Beaumont High School in St. Louis, Missouri. Following graduation, he went on to serve his country honorably in the United States Navy.In 1973, Aaron’s life took a beautiful turn when he met the love of his life, Sheila Faye, after what he fondly described as a serendipitous encounter. He often shared the story of their first meeting Sheila sitting by the roadside with just one shoe, a memory that never failed to bring laughter and warmth to those who heard it. Their love was evident to anyone who saw them. Whether they were stepping out in coordinated outfits or gliding across the dance floor with effortless grace, Aaron and Sheila’s presence together was magnetic. Their bond was not only deep, but joyful, vibrant, and unforgettable.After his military service, Aaron’s entrepreneurial spirit flourished. He owned and operated several businesses over the years, including a beloved BBQ restaurant in St. Louis. His grilling skills were legendary, known from St. Louis all the way to Tampa Bay, where family, friends, and customers alike looked forward to anything from the grill master.In 1995, Aaron relocated to Tampa, Florida, where he continued to make his mark in the restaurant industry. He served as a Store Manager with KFC -Yum Brands, leading multiple locations across the Tampa Bay area. Known for his strong work ethic, leadership, and ability to bring out the best in others, Aaron earned the respect of both colleagues and customers.Aaron accepted Christ at an early age in St. Louis. After relocating to Tampa, he joined First Baptist Church of Progress Village, where he was a faithful member for many years. In time, Aaron felt called to deepen his service, and his spiritual journey took on new purpose as he became more actively involved in the life of the church.His professional experience and business acumen proved invaluable when he was appointed Church Business Administrator. In this role, he contributed significantly to the growth and development of Progress Village Christian Academy and Day Care, as well as the overall business operations of the church. Aaron also served on the Leadership Team responsible for the planning, development, and construction of the largest capital project in the church’s history, known as “The Pavilion”.As his Faith continued to deepen, Aaron answered the call to ministry and was later ordained as a Minister. Even in retirement, his dedication remained unwavering. He joyfully sang with the Male Chorus, led the Evangelism and Outreach Team, taught Sunday School and New Member Classes, and served wherever he was needed. Aaron’s service was heartfelt, steadfast, and marked by a genuine love for God and God’s people.Aaron leaves behind a vault of cherished memories with his loving family, including his devoted wife of 52 years, Sheila Faye Lewis; his four children, Aaron Stacey Lewis, DPM (Jameelah, PhD) of Upper Marlboro, MD, Jackie Gascot (Eligio) of Tampa, FL, Lisa Lewis of Belleville, IL, and Sarah Robinson (Richard) of Tampa, FL; six siblings, Renee Sanders (Ronald) of Atlanta, GA, Michael Lewis of St. Louis, MO, Diane Williams of Atlanta, GA, Anthony Lewis of St. Louis, MO, Karen Lewis of St. Louis, MO, and Daryl Lewis of Phoenix, AZ; three sisters-in-law, Jackie Mitchell, Tammy Majheed-Ali, and Marva Mitchell, and one brother-in-law, Melvin Mitchell, all from St. Louis, MO. He is also remembered by his grandchildren, who affectionately knew him as “Pa Pa,” Elisha Lewis, Zacharias Lewis, Karmen Nicholas, Marques Nicholas, Naomi Nicholas, Rahman Selah, Marvaughn Lewis, Shaakira Lewis, Ashley Tucker, Jaylon Johnson, Serena Love-Rivers (Keyon), Robert “Tre” Tucker III, Ja’laya Robinson, Quinton Tucker, Jocelyn Robinson, Julian Ware, as well as Tyler Rucker and Calvin M. Rucker, his godchildren. Aaron's legacy extends to a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and many other family members and friends.Aaron will be remembered for his big heart and the countless lives he touched. He was a provider, protector, supporter, mentor, leader, and above all, a man of deep faith. Those who knew him best will remember his strength, generosity, and unwavering courage. His culinary talents, especially on the grill as well as his interest in sports including football, baseball, and golf will also be fondly recalled.Aaron gained his wisdom from both Scripture and Life Experiences. Though his voice is now silent, his Love, Faith, and Lessons will resonate in our lives forever.There will be a viewing on Thursday November 21, 2025, at Wilson Funeral Home, 3000 N. 29th Street, Tampa, Florida 33605 from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. “A Wilson Service”

Reverend Aaron "Tommy" Lewis

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Reverend Aaron's Obituary