John George "Jack" Lewis

After a courageous battle with cancer we regretfully announce the peaceful passing of John G. (Jack) Lewis of Hobe Sound, FL and formerly of Saratoga Springs, NY on January 11, 2026 surrounded by his family. He was the son of George E. Lewis and Mary King Lewis of Watertown, NY. He was predeceased by his younger brother, Richard and his younger sister, Katherine.

Jack is survived by his wife of 61 years Valerie R. Lewis and his children Deborah LaVigne (Franz) of Clifton Park, NY and Christopher Lewis of Hobe Sound, FL. He is the loving grandfather of Alex and Nick LaVigne and Grace, Rhian and Miles Lewis. He is also survived by his nieces and nephews.

Jack earned his bachelor's and master's degrees in Education Administration from SUNY Oswego and his doctorate at SUNY Albany. His 37 year career in education began in the classroom, but the highlight was the 30 years he spent in administration at Shenendehowa Central Schools in Clifton Park, NY. He also enjoyed being an active member on the boards of Leonard Hospital, St Mary's Hospital of Troy, NY and Schuyler Ridge Nursing Home.

In his free time he was an avid sports fan and especially enjoyed playing golf with his friends. He was a member at Mc Gregor Links Country Club for 40 years. His love of wrestling led him to start a program at Jordan Elbridge Central School and later he was the first coach of the Shenendehowa Youth Wrestling Club in Clifton Park, NY. During the month of August he could be found enjoying the horses at Saratoga Race Track.

Following his retirement, Val and he enjoyed traveling the world including the US, Europe, Asia and Australia.

Private services will be at a later date.

Contributions in his memory may be made to the scholarship fund (class of 1956) at

Northern NY Community Foundation.

131 Washington St.

Watertown, NY 13601

Please specify Class of 1956 on the check