Photo courtesy of Smith, Bizzell & Warner Funeral Home
Gary, Indiana
Mar 30, 1939 – Aug 3, 2024
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Paul was born on March 30, 1939, in Princeton, Indiana to Paul Sr. and Pearl Lewis; both of whom preceded him in death.
He was baptized at an early age and graduated from Princeton High School. As a teenager, Paul never shied away from the opportunity to show off his roller skating and dancing prowess.
Paul was a very diligent worker who believed that sleep was overrated. In fact, Paul worked two full-time jobs for over 30 years with four hours of sleep or less between jobs each day. He was a Clerk in the U.S. Post Office and a Stock Clerk and Shipping Coordinator at Guarantee Reserve Life Insurance Company.
Paul was a committed leader as a Union Steward for the Post Office and Chief Usher at Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church. He was in both leadership positions for over 20 years. He was also a Trustee and Head of the Transportation Ministry for many years at Mt. Zion. Paulwas simply a dedicated servant.
He was an exceedingly kind man who was never too busy to speak a word of encouragement to others and helpwhenever he could. Paul loved to travel, and driving was his preferred method of transportation. He liked taking his time wherever he went as he would stop often to admire the sites along the way. He was an avid sports fan who was passionate about watching his children and grandchildren as they participated in a variety of different sports.
Paul’s last occupation was serving as a utility player who wore many hats in support of others at Smith, Bizzell and Warner and Golden Gate funeral homes in Gary and Chicago, respectively.
After battling illness, the Lord saw fit to take Paul into his arms on the morning of August 3rd. He passed away peacefully at his home. Paul will always be loved and remembered for his engaging personality, kindness, extraordinary work ethic and service to others.
Paul is survived by his dedicated and loving wife Carolyn; his sons James Michael (LaFaye), Randall (Helen), Anthony (Kamara); stepdaughters Pam Austin (Bobby),and Sherroen Watkins; stepson Randy Walker (Katrina);and grandchildren, Antoine, BJ, Jalen, Jaren, Kaila, Kyle, Marcus, Nikki, Randy Jr. and Shayla; great grandchildren;Caden, LaDaisha, Robert and Ryan, other family members and many friends.
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May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Rita Flynn
August 13, 2024 | Indianapolis, IN | Friend
Deepest condolences to the Lewis Family. Having taught and coached James and Randall I got to know Mr. Lewis as an involved and strong father. May you find comfort in his memory.
Bob Stephens
August 12, 2024 | School
I met Paul when he was a member of the NWI Interfaith Federation. Later, we worked together in the organization. He was a man of faith and lived his values. He was always willing to lend a helping hand to others. He served his church faithfully. His wife Carolyn was such a blessing to him and he was so proud of his children and grandchildren. Paul is an example of a life well-lived. My condolences to his wife and family. May God keep you in His tender care.
Patricia Jackson
August 12, 2024 | Merrillville, IN | Friend
I knew Paul , through his daughter and my friend Pam . One of the memories I can share is , Pam school (Wallace ) was a protest at 41 Williams street..Mr Paul Knew he couldn´t March , but he could give his support just by sitting in the car and watching and giving his thoughts on the school board. Most of all to show Pam His Support .. His smile , His Knowledge and Widsom . He love his church , His Family and His Wife , Even today if u see their cars , the license plate has their names and...
Diane Hicks
August 11, 2024 | Other
My prayers for the family.
Bobbye Sanders
August 11, 2024 | Merrillville, IN | Friend
My condolences to the family he was such a nice person and neighbor he will truly be missed seeing him sit on his backyard bench.
Gina perez
August 11, 2024 | Friend
To Paul's family we send our heartfelt condolences. Paul was a special person to us. His kindness will always be appreciated and never forgotten.
Randle Smith and Family
Randle Smith
August 11, 2024 | Friend
My sincere condolences ,prayers, and love to the family ❤ . Praying for strength and peace.
Patricia Dumas
August 10, 2024 | Gary, IN | Family
My condolences to the family of Paul James Lewis, Jr........Paul was a very talkative and had a jovial fun loving spirit......Paul Loved the Lord. Paul dedicated his service to his pastor, Church, Wife and Family and his Church Family.......I met Paul years ago. Paul belong to the Hammond Indiana United States Postal Service Family and later joined the Gay, Indiana Main United States Postal Service Family. Paul was a very diligent Union Steward, Union Member, Postal Clerk-Craft President....
Willie Strickland
August 10, 2024 | Gary, IN | Coworker