William Henry "Bill" Lewis

William Henry "Bill" Lewis obituary, Birmingham, AL

William Henry "Bill" Lewis

William Lewis Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Mar. 13, 2024.
William Henry "Bill" Lewis, 86, of Birmingham, AL passed away peacefully on March 6, 2024. Bill was born on November 18, 1937 in Greenwood, AL. He graduated from Glenn High School, earned an Associate degree in Fire Science and a Bachelor of Science degree in Fire Service Management from Athens State College.

Bill served in the United States Navy from 1957-1959, spending ten months of that time aboard the USS Spiegel Grove. Following discharge, he remained in the Naval Reserves for a period of time. "Bo", as he was known in the Birmingham Fire Department, had a distinguished thirty-four year career, rising to the rank of Assistant Chief. Upon retiring from the Birmingham Fire Department, he served as the Fire Chief of Decatur, AL until his retirement in 2000.

Bill is survived by his wife of sixty-five years, JoAnn Stewart Lewis; his daughters, Kelli Walker and Sheri (Jeff) Culton; his grandchildren, Daniel (Jenna) Walker, Peyton Calhoun, Brooke (Michael) Walker, Brody Carreker and Christina (Karl) Burghart; his sister, Judi (Johnny) Heatherly, as well as a host of nieces and nephews. Bill was preceded in death by his sons, Jay Scott Lewis (infant) and Stuart Lewis; his parents, Earl and Daisy Lewis and a brother, Robert "Bob" Lewis.

Bill was a devoted family man and truly enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren. He passed on his love for the outdoors, as they were growing up, through activities such as hiking, camping, kayaking, and even some dirt bike riding. He had a great sense of humor and was always up for some fun and games...as well as an occasional prank.

Bill had a love of music, particularly old gospel and classic country songs and his deep baritone voice could often be heard as he sang along. He was a member of various Baptist churches throughout his lifetime and was baptized at the age of eight at Caanan Baptist Church in Bessemer. He had a great love for animals; he understood the profound connection between humans and their furry companions. His last sidekick was his beloved dog, "Rocky".

A memorial service for Bill will be held on March 14, 2024 to honor and celebrate his life - a life well lived.

Bill Lewis was a strong man, admired by many and cherished by his family. Words cannot express how much he will be missed. We were blessed with this wonderful husband, father, grandfather and friend and his legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

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May 19, 2024

Douglass Davies posted to the memorial.

March 14, 2024

Phillip Weeks posted to the memorial.

March 13, 2024

John Ray posted to the memorial.

3 Entries

Douglass Davies

May 19, 2024

Nothing but fond memories of Chief Bill Lewis while he was my Fire Chief in Decatur, AL. I would have to say he was my favorite. A real professional with a military bearing. Rest in peace my friend. (Ret.) Lt. Douglass Davies, Decatur Fire.

Phillip Weeks

March 14, 2024

Chief Lewis was my Chief at DFR. I served under several Chiefs during my years at DFR and he was one of the best and I don't mind saying, one of my favorite. I always thought highly of him and enjoyed talking with and serving under him. I pray for and send my condolences to all his family and friends.

John Ray

March 13, 2024

I have memories of a pleasant and friendly leader. He wil be remembered among good experiences working at BFR. The dinners he and Levon organized were a good way to bring retirees together to socialize and reminisce. Chief Lewis was an example of good leadership. Capt. John Ray Ret.

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Sign William Lewis's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

May 19, 2024

Douglass Davies posted to the memorial.

March 14, 2024

Phillip Weeks posted to the memorial.

March 13, 2024

John Ray posted to the memorial.