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Ramsey Lewis Obituary

Ramsey Lewis was a legendary jazz pianist who had a hit in 1965 with “The In Crowd.”

We invite you to share condolences for Ramsey Lewis in our Guest Book.

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Published by Atlanta Journal-Constitution on Sep. 13, 2022.

Memories and Condolences
for Ramsey Lewis

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27 Entries

Alvin Broussard

May 27, 2024

Thank you for all the beautiful music. I never met you. I wish I did. I met you through all the albums and cds. You were scheduled to play Houston, TX. but you took ill. I will miss you but I have the videos and cds. RIP Mr. Ramsey Lewis.

Lydia Walker

November 15, 2022

I am just now processing the loss I feel about Ramsey Lewis' transition. H. Johnson, a popular jazz historian in Atlanta played "The In Crowd" on his Saturday night jazz program on NPR a few weeks ago and when he said, "The late Ramsey Lewis" my heart sank. I was dealing with eye shingles on September 12. Spared the sadness of another neurological attack at the height of this viral infection, I can only reminisce. When Ramsey Lewis played at La Carousel, THE go-to jazz venue adjoining THE Paschal Restaurant during the sixties I was there! In fact, on my birthday one year I attended two nights in a row: with a male friend the first night and my college roommate the next wonderful evening. Neither friend knew I was doubly blessed. I wish I could have told Ramsey. I also feel that I can think of him by his first name. I turned 88 in March of 2022.

DENORRIS E HOUSE

November 8, 2022

My deepest condolences to the Ramsey Lewis Family, forever in our hearts, Chicago's very own.

Tony

October 10, 2022

My heartfelt condolences are offered to the family, many, many friends, colleagues and devoted army fans of Mr. Ramsey Lewis. Mr. Ramsey Lewis was a legendary jazz pianist who had a hit in 1965 with “The In Crowd.” He was greatly admired by many fellow artists and all those who knew him. May the love and many, many special memories you shared with your devoted loved one show how much your life was touched by him. May the God of comfort bless your grieving hearts with strength, loving kindness and peace as the world copes with the loss of Mr. Ramsey Lewis. May his music and legacy keep his memory alive forever. Thank you for Mr. Ramsey Lewis' contribution to the Jazz industry.

Judy Carter

October 5, 2022

A very Nice guy always had a smile and a since of relaxation in his presence; "Julia" was my theme song in 1969
for my wedding; he will truly be missed; the Gates have opened up for a REAL JAZZMAN; Rest in Heaven

Sharon Vankinscott

October 2, 2022

May the Lord comfort and strengthen the family.

September 21, 2022

It is so sad that the world has lost another talented musician that grace the stage with charisma and style. My husband loved music and was a collector of all types especially jazz. He had several or Mr. Lewis albums, "The in Crowd" being one of his favorites you could hear if not through the house, definitely while he was working in the backyard. Mr. Lewis was a legend he will definitely be missed. May the family continue to move forward knowing that Mr. Lewis is resting in peace.

Respectfully,


edo, Illinois

Sharon Vankinscott

September 19, 2022

My husband, Hugh (Van) Vankinscott was Ramsey's road manager in the '60s. It is our prayer that the Lord comfort and strengthen the family with the peace of God. The Vankinscott Family

September 19, 2022

I enjoye Ramsey Lewis at the London House every December. He will be greatly missed. Lillie cox

Barbara Wright / member of the Thomas and Dorsey Families

September 18, 2022

I Thank God for the greatest musicians in my family.

Janelle Eloisa Almendis

September 17, 2022

May all of you be comforted and my his legacy continues as music is the language of the soul.

September 16, 2022

You are my idol. I was just a young boy when I met you, and saw you play. At least I got to shake you talented hand, hoping it would rub off on me for I am a pianist too.thanks for it all. Now rest. Love and respect, Kevin Douthit Winston-Salem, N.C.

jERRY HAYNES

September 16, 2022

I HAVE ALWAYS ADMIRED BROTHER RAMSEY AND HIS MUSIC, HE AND WIFE WERE ALWAYS PLEASANT . A GREAT LEGEND WILL BE MISSED BUT HIS LEGACY CONTINUES TO ENTERTAIN THE WORLD. MY DEEPEST CONDOLENCES TO HIS FAMILY AND FRIENDS

Cecilia Arnold

September 16, 2022

To the family and friend you have my deepest condolence The loss of your loved one but God continue to strengthen you in this time bereavement

howard elovitz

September 16, 2022

i played with both of ramseys sons at roosevelt 88-90 - we played some shows @ roosevelt via eddie baker (led) band and after we played ramsey approached me , shook my hand said i did great and told me to stay at iT! those words still live with me. great man , great family and a huge huge loss . he led his life like he played - style and grace.

September 16, 2022

My sincerest condolences to the Lewis family, may God be with you all in your time of sorrow, so very sorry for your loss.

Milka Stanojevich

September 15, 2022

I loved Ramsey, I used to listen to his program on WNUA every morning. He made jazz smooth and elegant. We have lost a Chicagoan, a jazz icon and a wonderful man. Grant eternal rest upon your servant, Lord and bring solace and comfort to his family and friends. Thank yon for the music and sharing your talent with us.

wayne wachtell

September 15, 2022

HI RAMSEY! You had some really KOOL tunes that I liked !! REST IN PEACE

Almira Mathis

September 15, 2022

Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.

Alma Jones

September 15, 2022

Ramsey, you were a true gentleman of jazz. I am blessed to have enjoyed your music live many times in Chicago, and always enjoyed a gracious quick chat with you. Your holiday concerts were such a gift- remember them well. Thank you for your gifts that will live on. Rest in Peace.

Wilkerson Johnson

September 14, 2022

I was fortunate enough to meet Ramsey Lewis and his beautiful wife Janet through my television and music producer friend George Washington, who worked for Ramsey in 2006-2007. He was extremely down to earth and kind. One Christmas eve, I unexpectedly stopping by George's home to drop off his Christmas gift. George was having a private Christmas dinner party for Ramsey and his wife Janet, their band, and a few musicians. I apologized several times for intruding. Ramsey laughed and insisted I stay and dine with everyone. I was humbled and extremely honored at his natural graciousness. It was a wonderful experience that I will treasure forever. From that first encounter, I eventually got the opportunity to meet Nancy Wilson and even backstage pases when they toored. That you for the magnificent music and memories I will check for the rest of my life. Rest In Heaven Mr. Ramsey Lewis and my dear friend George Washington.

Melinda Evelyn

September 14, 2022

Mr. Ramsey was always cordial and professional to our family every time he came to visit our Church where his sister the late Pastor Lucille Lewis Jackson was our Pastor. He'll be missed here on earth. He's rejoicing with the Lord! Our deepest condolences to all Family members.

Linda McDowell

September 14, 2022

I was deeply saddened to learn of Ramsey's death. The world has lost a truly great pianist, musician, composer, and remarkable person.
My condolences to the family.

Elizabeth Robinson

September 13, 2022

Love Mr. Lewis' music. Could always tell he was the pianist on various jazz albums I have because of his signature style. Condolences to his family. God bless you.

Jimmy.

September 13, 2022

A grandmaster of jazz. God bless your family.

R R

September 13, 2022

What an icon, truly a jazz legend. I have enjoyed his music for years. His amazing talent will be missed by so many. Heartfelt condolences to the Lewis family, truly sorry for your loss. May God comfort and strengthen all of you as you endure this very difficult time of your loss.

Showing 1 - 27 of 27 results

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